I had a recall for my car today and had to take it in for service. In order for the fix to happen, they had to take out the gas in my tank, so when I left I was worried I’d run out of what gas I had before I could get home!
I’ve known other people - - teenagers and adults - -who run out of gas in other ways. They start projects with a lot of energy and ideas but can’t seem to finish them. As we prepare these next few days to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation on Friday, I want to share with you the idea that that doesn’t have to happen to us as Christians. Our “fuel” is the Holy Spirit... and the filling station is always open.
Some people have trouble understanding how the Holy Spirit can make a difference in our daily lives. I think what we will do this Friday makes it clear: Jesus breathes on his Apostles and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” He does that after saying that he sends us into the world as the Father sent him. So, Jesus gave us the Spirit as fuel for doing his mission.
What’s my point? If you really want to see how the Spirit can impact your life, call on the Spirit’s power to help you live like Jesus. You can do that in many ways. When you’re ready to explode, stop and ask the Spirit to calm you. When you’re ready to go along with the crowd instead of standing up for what’s right, stop and ask the Spirit to give you strength. When you feel like turning away from someone who needs you, stop and ask the Spirit to help you care.
The Sacrament of Confirmation isn’t hocus pocus or magic. Like many things, you get better at letting the Spirit empower you the more often you call upon the Spirit. I know that I’m more able to feel the Spirit in clutch moments if I’m praying regularly. Again, like cars, we need maintenance (a daily prayer life), not just occasional trips to the gas station.
So fill up this Friday!! There’s a whole world of people waiting for you to drive up with hope, healing and justice.
We all are looking forward to celebrating with You, The Young Church. Come, Holy Spirit!