In our readings today we see the reality of what happens when the message of the gospel is proclaimed – especially as it occurred at the time of Jesus, and as it still occurs today.
Those who live in darkness do not want the light to come near them, those whose deeds are evil do not want to be in the presence of goodness, those who chose lives of selfish self-centeredness do not want to be reminded of another way: a way of selfless self-giving!
And so Jesus tells his Apostles that they must be prepared for the world's hatred. They will not be treated any better than he was treated. Then he tells them to remain close to one another and to him and his Father – and they will be able to endure anything that comes their way – by the working of the Holy Spirit within them.
In the first reading we see how this indeed comes to pass. Paul, Barnabas and now Timothy with them deliver the amazing good news of salvation to the Gentiles – and they run up against opposition all the way. But being "led by the Holy Spirit" – they avoid certain areas and concentrate on other ones – where they would at least be received, welcomed and heard.
This same dynamic of being "led by the Spirit" – if trusted and acted upon – can always produce the very best results. Today we simply call it "being inspired" to do this or that! But if we are men and women of faith - and we are baptized and confirmed in that faith – then the inspiration does indeed come from the Holy Spirit himself. And we are truly led away from some situations, and towards others – and though it may seem peculiar to the "world" at large which observes us – it is always the safest and most sure way to go. The Spirit who is leading us – will never let us down. Jesus himself has prayed for this and is praying for our protection and effectiveness even now.
May we proclaim the joy, hope and peace of the Risen Christ to all we meet today – to all to whom we are led by the working of the Holy Spirit!
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