DAILY HOMILIES #Pentecost Day

“But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke. Then they secretly instigated men, who said, ‘We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.’” (Acts 6:10-11). There is a saying in pidgin – “the person wei dey cry still fit see road”. Do not assume that everyone showing you love during this period truly loves you. Shine your eyes! Be on guard. In today’s Gospel passage, we hear Jesus say: “Beware of men…” In other words: “Be Careful!” It is not everyone who goes to Church (or quotes the Bible) that is a Christian.

Let us examine our conscience today. Where do I stand in my relationship with God? Am I merely one of the multitudes? On the Last Day, will I be received into paradise or kicked out? Am I living righteously, or am I sinking deeper into iniquity daily? Am I willing to follow the narrow gate, or do I prioritise comfort, pleasure and power over my salvation? If we sincerely examine our conscience, we cannot help but call on the Holy Spirit while we still have the opportunity. Do not wait like the rich man who waited till he was in hell before begging Abraham to send Lazarus to give him a drop of water.

As the children of Israel received the tablet of the Law on Mount Sinai, marking a new dispensation for them – freedom from the captivity of the Egyptians, the coming of the Holy Spirit became the beginning of a new era for God’s children; the birth of the Church and the writing of the Law in our hearts. “A new spirit I will put within you, and I will take out of your flesh the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and carefully observe My ordinances.” (Ezekiel 36:26-27)