Take time in the Café to read about Eucharistic Miracles!
Water, wind, fire: these natural elements, which have fascinated humanity for ages, are caught up so powerfully in the drama of redemption.
Imagine with me for a moment witnessing Jesus as he descended into the water of the Jordan River, humbly presenting himself to his cousin John for baptism. I imagine John’s hands shaking as his heart silently sang. When Jesus emerges from the water, the voice of the Father is heard, the Spirit is seen in the form of a dove … and Jesus’ public ministry begins. The words the Father spoke that day were not only for Jesus, but also echo down the ages for you and me.
Pause with me for a few moments and listen to the Father say about you: “This is my beloved son, my beloved daughter, with whom I am well pleased.”
A little over three years later, in a very simple room, Jesus’ tiny band of followers gathered around Mary as they waited and prayed for his promised Spirit. The apostles knew they were beloved of the Father, and yet they still struggled with doubts. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, gusts of wind embrace their weary bodies and flames of fire descend upon them—marking their fiery new life in the Holy Spirit.
Jesus' mission did not end on the day of his Ascension. Oh, no! From that first Pentecost until the end of time it endures by means of the hands, the feet, and the hearts of his disciples and continues to bear great fruit in the world today.
As we celebrate the birth of the Church this Pentecost, let’s beg the Holy Spirit to renew the face of the earth. We are just weeks away from the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) and the launch of the Year of Parish Revival. Let’s not be afraid to allow God’s holy fire to sink deep into our own hearts, into those dark places in need of new life and freedom. Pray for this especially at Mass on Pentecost Sunday!
Water, wind, fire: these natural elements mean so much more for us—all because of our encounter with Jesus and sharing divine life with him—especially in the Eucharist!
In Jesus,
Sister Alicia Torres, F.E.
Managing Editor