We have been reading the Acts of the Apostles since the Easter season began. Through these readings we have been witnesses of all the healing and preaching in the name of Jesus that the apostles have been doing. We have been witnesses of the absolutely fearless joy that invaded their hearts, so much so, that “... It is impossible for us not to speak about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4: 20 The apostles are imprisoned and leave the jail without unlocking the doors and go back to the temple to preach and heal and baptize in the name of Jesus, there is no threat from the Sanhedrin that seems to stop them, or even give them a pause. They had received the Holy Spirit and they remain open to the Spirit’s gifts to them and they cannot, not share that life in the Spirit.

Reflecting about myself and my own internal battles, this passage speaks to me in a new way today. It challenges me to trust in the new life that the risen Christ wants to give me through the Holy Spirit, without fighting back to keep control, but being open to the Spirit and being generous in my response.

The Gospel passage of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes to feed those who had even forgotten to eat as they were spending time with Jesus and listening to him, is just a wonderful story of generosity and trust where we are invited to collaborate and share, to offer all that we have in order for all to be able to be fed.

Let us pray that we remain open to the Spirit of God that wants to bring new life to us individually, but also to our community through our generous sharing and collaboration so that all can have what they need.