Come Holy Spirit series: The Holy Spirit Beside us as Paraclete.

 Come Holy Spirit

Come Holy Spirit

The Paraclete — The Holy Spirit Beside Us

We have spent the last several months walking with the Holy Spirit through the fruits He brings to life in us — gentleness, patience, self-control, and all the rest. But now, a new light beckons: not just what the Spirit does in us, but who He is.

The Many Names of the Holy Spirit — Focusing on the Paraclete

The Holy Spirit is not a vague or distant force; He is deeply personal — God-with-us in power, wisdom, and intimacy. Scripture and tradition give the Spirit many names, each one revealing a facet of His mission and His presence in our lives.

Names of the Holy Spirit in Scripture and Tradition

• Spirit of God (Genesis 1:2)
• Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35)
• Spirit of the Lord (Isaiah 11:2)
• Spirit of Truth (John 14:17)
• Advocate / Paraclete (John 14:26)
• Counsellor (John 16:7)
• Comforter
• Teacher (John 14:26)
• Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding (Isaiah 11:2)
• Spirit of Counsel and Might
• Spirit of Knowledge and Fear of the Lord
• Spirit of Christ (Romans 8:9)
• Spirit of Adoption (Romans 8:15)
• Spirit of Grace (Hebrews 10:29)
• Breath of God (Job 33:4)
• Fire (Acts 2:3)
• Gift of the Most High

Each name carries mystery and power — not abstract, but alive in us, shaping us, praying within us, and bearing fruit in our lives.

 

Today’s Focus: The Paraclete

When Jesus promises the Holy Spirit to His disciples, He calls Him the Paraclete — a word rich in meaning. “Paraclete” comes from the Greek paraklētos, which means one who is called alongside to help.

It is a legal term, yes — like an advocate in court — but it is  so much more. The Paraclete is the one who:

• Defends us when we are accused.
• Comforts us when we are hurting.
• Teaches us when we are confused.
• Reminds us of Jesus' words.
• Dwells in us so we are never alone.

The Paraclete is the Spirit who comes alongside — never in front to dominate, never behind to push — but beside us, like a true companion.  When we are hurting, we can simply ask the Holy Spirit to comfort us just as we would ask a friend. The Holy Spirit is willing to defend, comfort, teach, remind and dwell within us.  Do we desire to know the Holy Spirit? Do we ask him when we are in need or simply touch our heart as He dwells within our soul.

 

The Paraclete in Your Life Today

As we journey through our lives, we may wish to ponder and remember the times when the Holy Spirit as we have felt the presence of the Holy Spirit  by  defending, comforting, teaching, reminding and dwelling in us.  Ponder those moments and treasure them.  The presence of the Paraclete anchors and activates our journey. If you have sensed His prompting, His stirring, His guidance — then know this: He is already at work within you.

Nothing is too small in our lives for the Holy Spirit. We need to desire to come to know Holy Spirit.  Recently I have been doing a lot of baking and learning not only new recipes but different techniques. Even in this experience of learning, the Holy Spirit has been gently showing me what it means to offer the “first fruits”: not merely the results, but my creativity, my trust, my willingness to be led.

The Paraclete does not just help us get through life — He helps us become fire.

 

This next phase of our journey invites us to deepen our relationship with the Spirit by meditating on the names by which He is known — and loved. Each name is not just a title, but a window into the mystery of God’s nearness. Today, we begin with a name Jesus Himself used: The Paraclete.

 

Scripture Speaks: Who is the Paraclete?

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Paraclete to be with you forever — the Spirit of truth…”— John 14:16–17

The word Paraclete appears most clearly in the Gospel of John. In Greek, paraklētos refers to one who is called alongside — to help, to comfort, to advocate.

Jesus promises His disciples that even though He will return to the Father, they will not be left orphaned. The Paraclete — the Holy Spirit — will be sent in His name. He will not only teach them, but remain with them, breathing Christ’s presence into their every step.

Other translations of this same word vary: Advocate, Helper, Comforter, Counsellor. Each word highlights a different thread of the same promise: the Spirit is near, not in concept but in companionship.

 

Unpacking the Name: What Does “Paraclete” Mean for Us?

 It is worth pausing and letting this sink in:

• The Paraclete is not distant, watching your life like a spectator.
• The Paraclete is not forceful, pushing or pulling like a puppet-master.
• The Paraclete is the One who comes beside you. Not in front, not behind. Beside.

The presence of the Paraclete is often gentle — so gentle, in fact, that we might miss it. He does not demand centre stage. Instead, He whispers truth, offers wisdom, breathes peace. He is the comfort in grief, the courage in fear, the clarity in confusion.

·         He advocates when our heart condemns us.

·         He reminds us of Jesus when we forget the path.

·         He prays within us when we do not know how to begin.

·         He helps us to stand — and to walk again.

 

A Personal Glimpse: When the Paraclete Comes Close

For many of us, it is only in hindsight that we realise: That moment… that gentle nudge… that breath of peace — it was Him.

Perhaps you’ve experienced this already, especially when you’ve stepped into new territory with God — maybe a new recipe, a new challenge, a creative breakthrough. You’ve trusted when you weren’t sure. You’ve offered something first, not knowing what would follow — like “first fruits.” And mysteriously, grace followed.

Could it be that the Holy Spirit was right there — not doing it for you, but encouraging you beside you?

That is what it means to be accompanied by the Paraclete.

 

For Journaling and Reflection

• When have I experienced the Holy Spirit standing beside me?
• Do I call on the Paraclete as a companion, or do I often try to walk alone?
• What new step is the Spirit asking me to take — not by myself, but with Him?
• Which name of the Holy Spirit speaks most deeply to you right now?
• Have you ever experienced the Spirit as Paraclete — as one who stood beside you in a moment of confusion, weakness, or courage?
• What “first fruit” might you offer today — an action, a word, or a creative gesture — as a sign of your cooperation with the Spirit?

A Simple Prayer

Holy Spirit, Paraclete and Friend,
Come alongside me today.
In silence or in noise,
In courage or in fear,
Be my Advocate, my Teacher, my Comforter.
When I forget what Jesus said,
Remind me.
When I grow weary,
Strengthen me.
Let me walk this day knowing
I am never alone.
Amen.

 

Come Holy Spirit series: Living the Fruitful life using the Fruits of the Holy Spirit

 Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit

Living the Fruitful Life: A Reflection on the Fruits of the Spirit

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Galatians 5:22–23

Over the past nine weeks, we’ve paused midweek to reflect on the fruits of the Spirit — not just as virtues to admire, but as real gifts that are being cultivated in us by the Holy Spirit.

Some fruits may have felt more familiar — others may have shone a spotlight into areas we’ve long avoided. However, in all things, the Spirit has been gently at work, pruning, nourishing, coaxing forth new growth.

 Nine Fruits, One Vine

These nine fruits are not separate personality traits we pick and choose like items from a supermarket shelf. They are the natural outcome of staying rooted in the Spirit. They grow together — slowly, sometimes painfully — but always with purpose. Just as a vine bears grapes, the soul that abides in God begins to bear fruit in season.

We began with Love — the foundation of all. Then came Joy and Peace, flowing from that love. Patience, Kindness, and Goodness came next — showing us what love looks like in action. Then came Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control — fruits that quietly guard and sustain the life of grace within.

Each of these fruits points back to Christ. Each fruit reflects something of His character. To grow in the fruit of the Spirit is to become more like Jesus.  

 Fruit Is Not Instant

No fruit appears overnight.  Sometimes, even when we think we’ve grown in patience or kindness or self-control, life offers us a fresh opportunity to learn again. We may wish to pause and reflect on how we have grown in these fruits during this part of the journey and ask the Holy Spirit to increase in us the fruits that we most need. 

The spiritual life is not about perfection, but cooperation. Our job is not to force the fruit to grow — but to remain open to the Spirit. To water our days with prayer, to open our hearts to Scripture, to remain pliable and teachable. In this way, the Spirit can do the deep interior work of transformation.

 Fruit That Feeds Others

The fruit of the Spirit is not just for our benefit. It is given to feed others. When someone encounters our gentleness instead of harshness, our peace instead of panic, our love instead of indifference — they taste something of God.

And that can change everything.

A Prayer to Close the Series

Come, Holy Spirit,
Grow in me what I cannot grow in myself.
Where love has withered, make it bloom again.
Where joy has fled, rekindle it.
Where peace is fractured, restore it.
Cultivate in me all the fruits of the Spirit.
And may my life be a branch that bears fruit for others —
fruit that lasts, fruit that blesses, fruit that glorifies You.

Amen.

 

What’s Next?

Next week, we begin a new section in this Holy Spirit series: Wondering Why — Titles, Images, and Symbols of the Holy Spirit.

Together, we will explore the deeper meanings behind the names we give the Spirit — Paraclete, Comforter, Fire, Dove, Seal, Living Water, and more.

Until then, may the fruits of the Spirit continue to grow in your life — not perfectly, but faithfully.

 

Come Holy Spirit Series Week 10 Part B Fruit of Self Control.

 Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit 

The Fruit of the Spirit: Self-Control

Scripture:
“…God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7

 

Unlike love or joy, which often flow outward, self-control is inwardly focused — the gift that helps us hold back when every part of us wants to surge forward. It helps us choose the narrow road when the broad road looks easier. It keeps our hearts in check, our tongues from lashing out, our impulses from overruling wisdom.

And yet, self-control isn’t about harsh restriction or rigid repression. Rather, it’s a liberating strength — the Spirit’s gentle yet firm guidance helping us live in alignment with Christ, rather than being pulled about by fleeting emotions or unchecked desires.

 

The Challenge of Self-Control

We all know the moments:

• When anger bubbles up uninvited.
• When we’re tempted to gossip, to snap back, or to indulge in something we know isn’t good for us.
• When we want to run from responsibility, rather than embrace our cross.

Self-control, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is what makes us pause… breathe… and choose Christ.

As St. Paul reminds us, “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training… but we do it to get a crown that will last forever” (1 Corinthians 9:25). This spiritual training — this habit of choosing God over the self — is what slowly transforms us into people of integrity, grace, and true freedom.

 

Cultivating Self-Control

If we’re honest, most of us don’t naturally enjoy limits. But self-control isn’t about denying ourselves for the sake of denial — it’s about surrendering our will in order to grow in holiness.

Here are a few gentle ways to cultivate this fruit in daily life:

• Pause before reacting. Ask, “Is this response rooted in love?”
• Create space for silence. Often, impulsivity grows louder in constant noise.
• Practice fasting — even small ones. Not just food, but anything we’re overly attached to.
• Invite the Holy Spirit into moments of temptation. Whisper, “Lord, reign here too.”

 

A Prayer for Self-Control

Holy Spirit,
You see the places in my life where I struggle to choose wisely.
Teach me to walk in freedom — not according to my desires, but according to Your will.
Strengthen me to pause, to listen, and to choose the better way,
Even when it’s hard.
Grow in me the gift of self-control,
That I may reflect the quiet strength of Christ,
Who gave His all in perfect love.
Amen.

 

Final Thought

The fruit of the Spirit begins with love and ends with self-control — not by accident. The first is the root of all Christian life; the last ensures that love is lived consistently and faithfully, especially when no one is watching.

Let us allow this fruit to take root deep within us, so that even in moments of struggle, we can reflect Christ’s steady hand, His patient heart, and His trust in the Father.

Collect Series: Twenty Second Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C

 

COLLECT SERIES

The Mass: Collect series icon

 

 

COLLECT

 

The Collect for the Twenty Second Sunday of Year C reads as follows:

 

God of might, giver of every good gift,

Put into our hearts the love of Your name,

So that, by deepening our sense of reverence,

And, by Your watchful care,

keep safe what You have nurtured

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,

Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

One God for ever and ever.

 

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

 

Converting this prayer into spirituality in action, the following reflection questions emerged:

 

1.What are the good gifts God has given me this past week?

2.What are the good gifts I hope to receive this coming week?

3. How can I love God’s name this coming week?

4. How have I not honoured God’s name in the past e.g. Allowing people to use God’s name in conversation which does not honour Him or do I use His name in conversation myself?

5.What does reverence mean to me and how I deepen my sense of reverence?

6. How has God nurtured me and how can I bring that sense of nurture to others?

 

 

GOSPEL REFLECTION

 

Gospel: Luke 14:1, 7–14

"For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

 

Reflection

In today’s Gospel, Jesus attends a meal at the house of a leading Pharisee and notices how the guests choose the places of honour. He responds with two teachings — one about humility and one about generosity.

1. Humility Before God and Others

Jesus invites us to resist the temptation to seek recognition and status. In a world that often rewards self-promotion and influence, He calls us to a different way of living — a way where greatness is measured not by where we sit at the table, but by how we serve others.
True humility does not mean putting ourselves down; rather, it means seeing ourselves truthfully — as loved children of God — and allowing God to place us where we belong.

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11)

Humility opens the door for God’s grace to work in us. When we stop striving to make ourselves important, we become free to love without fear and serve without seeking reward.

 

2. Generosity Without Expectation

Jesus also challenges us to widen our circle of care. He encourages us to invite those who cannot repay us — the poor, the lonely, the forgotten. This teaching mirrors the very heart of God, who gives abundantly without expecting anything in return.

In doing so, Jesus invites us to reflect God’s generosity in our relationships. Our reward is not found in earthly recognition but in the joy of sharing God’s love, and ultimately, in the eternal banquet of heaven.

 

Practical Takeaways for the Week

• Examine your heart: Are there moments when you seek recognition or control? Offer them to God in prayer.
• Practice hidden acts of kindness: Do something good for someone who cannot repay you.
• Choose humility: When tempted to compete for attention or status, ask Jesus for the grace to be content where you are.

 

Prayer

Lord Jesus,
Teach me to walk humbly with You and to serve others with a generous heart.
Free me from seeking recognition,
And help me to love as You love —
quietly, deeply, and without expecting anything in return.
Amen.

 

 

 

 

Come Holy Spirit Series: Week 9 Part B: Fruit of Faithfulness.

 

Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit

The Fruit of Faithfulness

Scripture Focus

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart.” — Proverbs 3:3

What Is Faithfulness?

Faithfulness is the steady, unwavering commitment to God, to others, and to what is right—even when it’s difficult. It’s about showing up, following through, and standing firm in our promises. In a world where so much is fleeting and uncertain, faithfulness is a quiet but powerful witness to God’s steadfast love.

To be faithful is not only to believe, but to remain anchored in that belief when doubts arise, when life doesn’t go to plan, or when no one else is watching. It’s loyalty with endurance. This fruit often grows through hardship, as we learn to trust God deeply and act with integrity regardless of reward or recognition.

 

Scriptures Related to the Fruit of Faithfulness

Here are a number of beautiful and meaningful scripture verses that connect strongly with the fruit of faithfulness, either by directly referencing it or by reflecting its spiritual depth and character

1. Galatians 5:22–23

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control…”
This is the foundational verse listing faithfulness as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit.

2. Lamentations 3:22–23

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
A powerful declaration of God's unwavering faithfulness as our model and anchor.

3. 1 Corinthians 4:2

“Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”
Faithfulness is a quality expected of anyone entrusted with responsibility—spiritual or practical.

4. Psalm 37:3

“Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
Often read as a call to faithfulness in daily life—trusting and remaining in the Lord.

5. Matthew 25:21

“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”
This well-known verse shows that God's reward is tied to our daily, humble faithfulness.

6. Hebrews 10:23

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.”
This passage links our human faithfulness to God's divine reliability.

7. Proverbs 20:6

“Many claim to have unfailing love, but a faithful person who can find?”
This reminds us of the rarity and value of true faithfulness among people.

8. Revelation 2:10

“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
A powerful encouragement to persevere faithfully to the end.

9. Psalm 31:23

“Love the Lord, all his faithful people! The Lord preserves those who are true to him…”
A beautiful affirmation of God’s protection for the faithful.

10. 1 Thessalonians 5:24

“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.”
A reminder that our faithfulness is founded on the reliability and power of God.

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Would you like these collected into a 1-page downloadable PDF for your blog readers or personal reflection? I can prepare that for you.

 

Practicing Faithfulness in Daily Life

Faithfulness blossoms through small, repeated acts of trust and integrity. Here are a few ways to cultivate it:

• Begin each day with a moment of commitment — a prayer, a scripture, a pause to reorient your heart toward God.
• Keep your word — even in small things. Let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no (Matthew 5:37).
• Be loyal in your relationships — show up for others even when it’s inconvenient or unseen.
• Persevere in prayer — especially when answers are delayed.
• Stay consistent in your spiritual practices, even when enthusiasm wanes.
• Trust in God’s faithfulness — let His reliability strengthen your own.

 

Journaling and Reflection Prompts

Spend time with the Holy Spirit this week reflecting on these prompts:

1. Where in my life have I seen God’s faithfulness clearly?
2. What areas of my life need more consistency or reliability?
3. Am I faithful to the commitments I’ve made — to God, to others, and to myself?
4. In what ways do I struggle with faithfulness when things don’t go my way?
5. How does Jesus model faithfulness in the Gospels?
6. What might be one small act of faithfulness I can do today?

 

Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit,
Grow in me the fruit of faithfulness.
When I feel tired or discouraged, steady my heart.
When I feel pulled in many directions, remind me of what matters most.
Shape me into a person who is reliable, trustworthy, and anchored in Your truth.
May my faithfulness be a reflection of Yours — constant, merciful, and strong.
Amen.

.

 

Collect for 21st Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C

 

COLLECT SERIES

The Mass: Collect Series Icon

 

 

COLLECT

 

 

The Opening Prayer for the Twenty First Sunday of Year C reads as follows:

 

O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose,

grant your people to love what you command

and to desire what you promise,

that, amid the uncertainties of this world,

our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you

in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

 

Converting this prayer into spirituality in action, the following reflection questions emerged:

 

1.What is the single purpose to which I am united?

2.What are the commands that God wants to love?

3. Which of these commands do I struggle with most often and what can I do to change this?

4.What are the promises of God that I need to desire?

5.Where is my heart fixed right now and where will I fix it this coming week?

6. What are the uncertainties of my world that I can bring to God this coming week?

 

GOSPEL REFLECTION

Gospel Reflection: Luke 13:22–30

"Strive to enter through the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able."

 

Context of the Passage

In this passage, Jesus is journeying toward Jerusalem, teaching along the way. When someone asks Him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?” Jesus doesn’t give a numerical answer but instead redirects the focus: salvation isn’t about how many are saved but about how each person responds to God’s invitation.

 

Key Themes

1. The Narrow Door

The “narrow door” represents the challenging but rewarding path of discipleship. It’s not about being perfect but about wholehearted commitment.

• The door is “narrow” because it requires humility, surrender, and trust in God’s mercy.
• Jesus warns that it will not remain open forever — there is urgency in choosing to follow Him today, not tomorrow.

 

2. Knowing About Jesus vs. Knowing Him Personally

Jesus says that some will say, “We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets,” but He will reply, “I do not know you.”

• Being familiar with religious practices or Christian culture isn’t enough.
• True discipleship flows from a living relationship with Jesus, expressed through love, repentance, and mercy.

 

3. The Great Reversal

Jesus shocks His audience by declaring, “Some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”

• Salvation isn’t based on status, knowledge, or heritage — but on faith and openness to God’s grace.
• Those considered “outsiders” may enter before those who assumed they were “safe.”

 

Reflection Questions

1. What does the “narrow door” look like in my own life right now?
2. Am I living out my faith in a way that transforms my daily choices, or am I just “near” Jesus without truly following Him?
3. Are there areas where I need to let go of pride, self-reliance, or complacency so I can walk more freely with Him?
4. How can I better respond to God’s invitation today, rather than postponing my “yes” for later?

 

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me to choose the narrow door each day.
Give me the courage to leave behind distractions and sin,
the humility to rely on Your grace,
and the love to follow You wherever You lead.
May I never presume upon salvation but live each day seeking You with all my heart. Amen.

 

Moments with the Gospel Series: The Guest without the Wedding Garment Mt 22:1-14

 

Have you ever wondered about the guest without the wedding garment? I was meditating on this Gospel this morning and it occurred to me that even though Matthew 22:1-14 is a parable, Jesus often used imagery drawn from real-life customs so His audience would understand the deeper spiritual meaning. 

Let me explain the cultural context around the wedding garments and why the guest without one stood out

 1. Wedding Customs in the Time of Jesus

In first-century Jewish culture, weddings were major community events, often lasting several days. When a wealthy or prominent host — like the “king” in this parable — held a wedding banquet, it was customary to provide special garments for the guests.

• These garments symbolized honour, joy, and respect for the occasion.
• Guests would be expected to put on these robes upon arrival.
• Failing to wear one would be seen as an insult to the host — effectively saying, “I accept your invitation, but on my own terms.”

This tradition is supported by historical writings (e.g., Josephus, Talmudic references) that describe wedding hosts supplying appropriate attire, especially when the feast was given by someone wealthy, like a king.

 2. Why One Guest Didn’t Wear a Wedding Garment

In the parable, the guest had no excuse for not wearing the garment because:

• The host provided it.
• Other guests were wearing theirs.
• To refuse was an act of defiance or indifference.

In the cultural setting, showing up improperly dressed wasn’t about poverty or inability — it symbolized rejecting the Honor and requirements of the host’s invitation.

 3. The Spiritual Meaning

Jesus’ audience would have understood the cultural point immediately, but He used it to teach a deeper truth:

• The king represents God.
• The wedding banquet represents the kingdom of heaven.
• The garment represents righteousness — the transformation God provides when we accept His invitation.
• The guest without the garment symbolizes someone who wants the benefits of the kingdom but refuses to be changed by God’s grace.

It ties beautifully to passages like Isaiah 61:10:

“He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of His righteousness.”

4. Why Jesus’ Listeners “Knew” This

Jesus’ audience was very familiar with:

• The expectation of proper garments at weddings.
• The shame associated with being found unprepared.
• The social and religious symbolism of cleanliness and clothing — which was deeply tied to covenant life in Jewish thought.

That’s why this parable would have struck them powerfully. It wasn’t about fashion; it was about acceptance and transformation.

Reflection Questions

1. Receiving the Invitation
• How am I responding to God’s daily invitation to draw closer to Him?
• Are there moments where I’ve been “too busy” with other things to enter into His presence?
2. Wearing the Garment
• In what ways am I allowing God to “clothe me” with His grace, forgiveness, and love?
• Are there areas of my life where I resist transformation — wanting the blessing but not the change?
3. Examining My Readiness
• If God invited me to His banquet today, would I feel ready to enter?
• What might I need to “leave behind” to accept His invitation fully?
4. Living the Gospel Today
• How can I live today as someone who is already seated at God’s table?
• What small act of love, kindness, or forgiveness can I offer that reflects my “wedding garment” to others?
5. Hearing God’s Voice
• What part of this passage stirs something deep within me today?
• Could God be inviting me to take one concrete step — however small — toward Him this week?