TODAYS REFLECTION Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, 6TH WEEK OF EASTER MON MAY 2

TODAYS REFLECTION Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church, 6TH WEEK OF EASTER MON MAY 2 ( Acts 16:11-15, Jn 15:26-16:4a )

#THESPIRITSTRENGHTENSUSINFAITHANDCOURAGE#

Friends in todays gospel Jesus offers his disciples the best and truest of friends. Who is this promised friend? He is the HOLY SPIRIT. HE is our Advocate and Helper who guides and strengthens us and brings us safely through the challenges and adversities we must face in this life. the Holy Spirit is inseparably one with the Father and the Son. It is the Holy Spirit who gives life, the very life of God and who makes faith come alive in hearts and minds of people who are receptive to God's word.

Furthermore, Jesus warned his disciples that they could expect persecution just as He was opposed and treated with hostility. He prepared His disciples for their heavy cross of persecution by the religious leaders by letting them know that they would be strengthened by the Holy Spirit to give witness and testimony to Him. The Spirit gives us courage and perseverance when we meet adversities and challenges.

Beloved, we must realize that being a Christian means persecution. We see this persecution in our world today through various terrorist attacks upon Christians. Some see it also, at times, within the "Domestic Church," the family, when they experience ridicule and harsh treatment for trying to live out their faith. And, sadly, it's even found within the Church itself when we see fighting, anger, disagreement and judgment. Lets us stand firm in faith against all these.

May the lord teach us to love those who hate us, and to pray for those who despitefully use us. Wishing you God's choicest blessings in this New month. May Mary our Mother whom we honour in this month INTERCEDE ALWAYS FOR US.