In many nations, today's feast is a holy day of obligation, even when it doesn't fall on Sunday. This means that today's gathering of God's people is so important that it is often considered mandatory. Today is so special because:
If God has His way, each of us and the whole Christian community will be different after today's community celebration. We will be more holy. Many Christians will be freed from the chains of sin, addiction, and fear (see Acts 12:6-7). Many evils will be bound, and many graces loosed (Mt 16:19). Thousands, hundreds of thousands, or even millions will give their lives to Jesus and be on the path to salvation. Today, countless throngs throughout the world will receive the fullness of the Spirit.
Of course, every day is a day of grace, but the Lord has chosen some days to be even more significant (see Sir 33:7-9). "This is the day the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it" (Ps 118:24). Alleluia!
| PRAYER: | Father, when today I hear Your voice, may I harden not my heart (see Ps 95:7-8). |
| PROMISE: | "The Lord will continue to rescue me from all attempts to do me harm and will bring me safe to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen." –2 Tm 4:18 |
| PRAISE: | "The Holy Spirit descended upon all who were listening to Peter's message" (Acts 10:44). |
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