Contemplation on the Historic Gospel for this Sunday

Exaudi, The Sunday after the Ascension – John 15:26-16:4

Part of the Holy Spirit’s work was to witness to Christ. We too must be witnesses for our Lord and Savior. The Apostles witnessed by going, preaching, suffering, bleeding, and dying. Thus have other believers witnessed down through the centuries. We are to be no different. The only difference with us today so far is that we have not been called upon to suffer, bleed, and die – at least not yet!

Our witnessing is to consist in a devout will, the services of a pure heart, self-sacrificing love, and in faithfulness to our task. Sounds almost like a military oath to “duty, honor, country,” doesn’t it? As well it should. For we are in an “army” of sorts – the army of heaven; soldiers of the Cross! Thus, we have the duty of showing our faith, the honor of serving Christ, and are part of the country of God’s kingdom.

And we must not be surprised at the opposition of those who are ignorant of Christ and His Gospel. We must not think that Christianity is wrong merely because is it opposed by the majority. It is the work of the Spirit to make us the kind of people who can live our faith in such a way that all can see Christ in us and then seek Him for themselves. God, make us willing and effective warriors for Your Word!