On this feast of the Visitation, the Lord reveals to us that even infants in the womb can receive the Holy Spirit by the Lord's sovereign power (Lk 1:15). Old women can receive the Spirit merely by hearing the greeting of a Spirit-filled person (Lk 1:41). Teenage girls will also receive the Spirit as they let it be done unto them according to the Lord's word (Lk 1:38). "The Spirit is moving all over this land."
The prophecy of Joel continues to be fulfilled: "I will pour out My Spirit upon all mankind. Your sons and daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; even upon the servants and the handmaids, in those days, I will pour out My Spirit" (Jl 3:1-2).
Mary is praying in heaven for you as she prayed for Jesus' disciples in the upper room (Acts 1:14). Repent. Give your life to Jesus. Thirst for the Spirit (Jn 7:37). Ask for the Spirit (Lk 11:13). "Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. It was to you and your children that the promise was made" (Acts 2:38-39).
| PRAYER: | Father, stir into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit (2 Tm 1:6). |
| PROMISE: | "The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty Savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in His love, He will sing joyfully because of you." –Zep 3:17 |
| PRAISE: | Praise Jesus, in the womb of Mary, Who brought joy, life, and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Alleluia! |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College