The Lord chooses the "lowborn and despised, those who count for nothing" (1 Cor 1:28). He pours out His Spirit on all mankind, even on the servants and handmaids (Acts 2:18; Jl 3:1-2). The "God-forsaken" Samaritans, the blasphemer Paul, and the pagan Cornelius received the Holy Spirit (see Acts 8, 9, 10). The twelve Ephesians, like the twelve apostles, received the Holy Spirit and "began to speak in tongues and to utter prophecies" (Acts 19:6). These men did not even know Jesus; they had received only the baptism of John (Acts 19:3). Yet in a few short hours, Paul led them to Jesus and to life in the Spirit.
Maybe you think you're not worthy to receive the Holy Spirit. No one's worthy, but Jesus baptizes in the Spirit anyway. Possibly you're not holy. Holiness does not give you the Spirit; however; the Spirit gives you holiness. Maybe no one respects you, but Jesus promised He will in no way reject you (Jn 6:37). The Holy Spirit is for "little old you" right here and right now. "Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest, and in our hearts take up Thy rest."
| PRAYER: | Jesus, may I have a growing, burning thirst for the Spirit. |
| PROMISE: | "You will suffer in the world. But take courage! I have overcome the world." –Jn 16:33 |
| PRAISE: | "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His kindness endures forever. Remember me, O Lord, as You favor Your people" (Ps 106:1, 4). |
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