Come Lord Jesus Series: Introduction and First Sunday Advent

 

COME LORD JESUS

Advent Journey Wreath: Come Lord Jesus Series.

Welcome to Come, Lord Jesus: Daily Reflections on the Entrance Antiphons for Advent Year A.

Are you like me?  Do you start the day with your focus on God?  Then the day gets underway and your focus on God fades into the distance. Your good intentions fade too?  The good news is that during advent this series Come Lord Jesus using the Entrance Antiphons may be just what we need to stay on track, refocus and desire Jesus more in our lives?

The Entrance Antiphons of Advent are short, luminous jewels drawn from the Scriptures—verses that carry the longing, hope, and ache of Israel as they waited for the Messiah. In just a line or two, each Antiphon opens a window into the heart of Advent: the desire for God, the need for conversion, the promise of salvation, and the quiet joy of expectation.

Each day of Advent, we will pause with the Antiphon appointed for the liturgy and allow its words to shape us from within. These reflections will be short but theologically rich, grounding us in Scripture and inviting us to deepen our longing for Christ. Advent is more than a countdown to Christmas; it is a season of reawakening—an invitation to lift up our souls, open our hearts, and prepare a place for the Lord who comes in grace, in mystery, and in glory.

I pray that these daily meditations help you walk through Advent with attentiveness and hope.  Come, Lord Jesus.

Let us begin

First Sunday Advent

Entrance Antiphon:

“To you, I lift up my soul, O my God.
In you, I have trusted; let me not be put to shame.
Nor let my enemies exult over me;
and let none who hope in you be put to shame.”
(Psalm 24:1–3)

Advent begins not with a gentle whisper but with a bold cry: “To you, I lift up my soul, O my God.” The Church gives us these words not as ornament but as orientation. Advent calls us to look up, to awaken, to reach beyond the comfortable patterns that so easily lull us into spiritual sleep. The very first movement of the season is upward—a deliberate raising of the inner life toward God.

This lifting of the soul requires courage. The psalmist prays, “Let me not be put to shame,” revealing the vulnerability inherent in trust. When we lift our souls, we expose our desires, our wounds, our hopes, our longing for God’s mercy. Advent invites us to stand honestly before the Lord who already sees the movements of our hearts and still says: Come to Me.

The “enemies” mentioned in the psalm are not limited to external threats. In Advent, they often come from within:
• the voice of discouragement that tells us nothing will ever change,
• the fatigue that smothers spiritual desire,
• the distractions that fracture our attention,
• the old disappointments that whisper, “Why hope again?”

These inner enemies exult whenever we resign ourselves to a smaller life, whenever we choose spiritual numbness over longing. But Advent resists this resignation. It stirs the deepest part of us to rise again, to hope again, to reach again for the God who comes.

Today marks the beginning of the liturgical year. With this Antiphon, the Church places on our lips a prayer that sets everything in motion. Before we act, we lift. Before we serve, we trust. Before we prepare, we turn our gaze upward toward God.

The earliest act of Advent is not doing but desiring.

Practice for Today:

Pause three times—morning, midday, evening—and pray slowly:
“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.”
Let this lifting begin Advent within you.

 

 

Collect Series Year A: First Sunday Advent Year A

 

FIRST SUNDAY ADVENT YEAR A

The Mass: Collect Series

  'stay awake because you do not know the day when your master is coming'.   

 

Welcome to Advent Year A Jesus reminds his disciples that the Second coming will be like in Noah's day- people going about their business unsuspecting of what is to come.  Advent provides us with the opportunity to refocus our attention, to jolt ourselves out of our sleepy ways and stand ready. We are preparing of course during Advent for the birth of Christ at Christmas, but Advent too is also a reminder of the final second coming of Christ.

  

COLLECT

 

All powerful God,

increase our strength of will for doing good,

that Christ may find an eager welcome at His coming

                                               and call us to His side in the kingdom of Heaven,

                                 where He lives and reigns with You and 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 my hindrances/obstacles which prevent my will from doing
          good?

2.            Name one hindrance/obstacle that I commit to change during this first
           week of Advent?

3.            What is my attitude to Christ in my life (strong? Luke-warm, care-less)

4.            What will I do this week to prepare my body, mind, heart and will to give
           Christ an eager welcome?

5.            Prepare my account of my life that I would present to God when He asks
           me to give 'an account of my life' to God? 

6.            In what ways do I hope to spiritually grow through God's grace in this
           season of Advent?

 

GOSPEL REFLECTION

 At the beginning of this liturgical year, let us spend some reflection time asking God to show us how we need to grow. Let us stay awake to God's advice and be committed throughout this year to spiritually grow in this/these area/s of our lives.  Let us be swept away with a passion and enthusiasm for our Catholic faith and stay awake to God throughout this coming year, so that we may be ready when He calls us.

 

Matthew 24:37–44

Theme: “Stay Awake, Be Ready: God’s Promises Are Being Fulfilled”

 

Setting the Scene

Jesus is speaking to His disciples in Jerusalem, just days before His Passion. He has been teaching in the Temple and warning about events to come. The Jewish people longed for the fulfilment of God’s promises — the coming of the Messiah and the fullness of God’s Kingdom.

In this passage, Jesus draws a parallel between the time of Noah and the coming of the Son of Man. People in Noah’s time were distracted — eating, drinking, marrying — unaware of what was about to unfold. Jesus uses this image to remind His followers that God’s plans often unfold quietly, even unexpectedly. The call is clear: stay awake, be ready, and live each day prepared to meet the Lord.

 

Gospel Reflection: Promises Unfolding

Advent begins with a startling message — a reminder that we live in the “already, but not yet” of God’s Kingdom. Through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, God’s promises have already been fulfilled, yet we continue to wait in hope for their complete fulfilment when Christ comes again.

The Gospel invites us into spiritual wakefulness. Being “awake” isn’t about staying physically alert but about having a heart attuned to God’s presence. It means choosing not to be lulled to sleep by routine, busyness, or worldly distractions. Jesus warns us gently that life can pull us into autopilot — but His invitation is to live with holy attentiveness.

The comparison with Noah’s time is powerful. The flood came suddenly, but those who walked closely with God were saved. In the same way, Advent is a time to pause and ask: Am I walking closely with the Lord, or have I been swept away by my own plans and priorities?

This Gospel also reminds us of God’s faithfulness. Every promise God has made is fulfilled in Christ. The long-awaited Messiah has come, and He will come again. Advent calls us to live with the joyful hope of His return, shaping our choices, attitudes, and relationships today.

 

Personal Reflection

Advent begins in the midst of ordinary life — bills to pay, meals to cook, errands to run — and yet, in this season, God whispers: “Stay awake. I am coming.”

For many of us, December is a time of frantic activity. But Jesus invites us to a different rhythm — one of watchfulness, expectancy, and deep trust. Being ready doesn’t mean doing more; it means creating space in our hearts for God’s presence, even in the smallest, quietest moments.

This Advent, let us choose to slow down, to listen more deeply, and to look for the ways God is fulfilling His promises in our everyday lives.

 

 

Advent Season Year A: Advent Happy New Year

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR

  

Welcome to the start of a new liturgical year - Year A. The Church welcomes the new year with a new season- Advent, which is s time to enter into more deeply the season of Advent.  Advent recalls the waiting for the Messiah of course, but it is also about the second coming of Christ in all His glory at the end of time.

 

I especially like Advent because it gives me a chance to review my life and make a plan, set goals and have a very good stocktake of myself.   I especially love Year A of Advent because it gives me the opportunity to set a bigger picture plan over 3 years and to really focus on my relationship with Jesus.  How many times when you go to an interview is the question asked ''Where do you want to be in 5 years time?  I like to ask myself that same question using the 3-year cycle instead. Where will my relationship with Jesus be and how will I grow through God’s grace during these 3 years.

 

It is always good to acknowledge growth because it can motivate us to know that good has occurred. Reviewing my life is good because it helps me to refocus my attention to what matters.  Setting goals and making an effort to implement them keeps me on track to further progress. Using these tools for my spiritual growth seems an obvious extension.

 

So I ask myself

1. What areas of my life do I want to be different this time next year/ 2 /3 years time?
2. what areas do I want to work on specifically in Advent?
3. Do I need someone else to journey with me to encourage me on my journey- a spiritual director, a Christian counsellor, a spiritual mentor - if so, who might that be?
4. what goals will I set and how will I implement them- in other words I set the goals and then break the goals down into manageable bite size pieces- putting a general time line on these goals is important b/c it keeps me motivated.  However there is always more with God and His timeline may be different from mine.  So I keep this point firmly in mind- not as an excuse to fail but as a realistic factor in the journey of faith.

Advent too is a penitential season. We are reminded of it with the violet vestments that the priest wears.  Leading up to Christmas can be difficult with various parties to include some fasting.  However, with intention to include it as part of your advent journey, it can be achieved. 

Start small- maybe you fancy another mince pie.  They are a real weakness of mine. !!!!

Going without a second, third or fourth one is a starting point.  Remember though your motive.  Is your motive God related or weight related?  Do you have a tendency towards greed or lack of temperance in food/drink? If so, then start small and make a start to change this vice towards a grace/virtue.

This way you can enjoy celebrating with your family/friends but you can also celebrate your own spiritual growth.

 

Many of us do a good spring clean before Christmas before family and friends come.  What about a spiritual spring clean?  What will do about your soul this advent?

 

I encourage you to not let Advent pass you by spiritually.  It is a very quick season liturgically speaking but we are meant to be in an attitude of waiting- waiting expectantly.

 

I hope you wait expectantly and with hope during this season of Advent.

 

Happy New Year.

 

  

 

Come Holy Spirit series: Spirit of Knowledge and Fear of the Lord.

 Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit

Come, Holy Spirit: The Spirit of Knowledge and Fear of the Lord

As we draw closer to the end of our “Come, Holy Spirit” series, we find ourselves before two of the most profound and soul-penetrating gifts: Knowledge and Fear of the Lord. At first glance, these may seem like polar opposites—knowledge being the pursuit of truth and fear being something we often try to overcome. But in the context of the Holy Spirit’s work within us, these gifts are inseparably intertwined, leading us into true intimacy with God.

The Spirit of Knowledge and Fear of the Lord does not merely educate the mind or frighten the soul. Instead, these gifts reorder our desires, reframe our understanding of God, and inspire awe and surrender. They awaken us to what it means to be known and loved by God—and to respond with reverence and humility.

Scriptural Foundation

“And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.”

— Isaiah 11:2
(Isaiah 11:2)

This verse from the prophet Isaiah lays out the Sevenfold Gifts of the Holy Spirit — a prophetic description of the Spirit resting upon the Messiah. Today, we reflect on the final two gifts in this sequence: Knowledge and Fear of the Lord.

The Prophet Isaiah describes the fullness of the Spirit resting upon the Messiah in these words:

“The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.”

This pairing of knowledge and fear of the Lord appears as the final in the list of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. Their placement is significant—inviting us not only into discernment and strength but into reverent relationship.

Knowledge here refers to a deep awareness of God’s plan, the dignity of all creation, and a detachment from earthly illusions.

Fear of the Lord, far from terror, denotes awe, reverence, and humble submission—the kind that draws us to worship rather than to flee.

What Do These Gifts Mean?

Knowledge is not just the accumulation of facts or intellectual prowess. In the biblical sense, it is a deep spiritual awareness — a knowing that comes from the heart and is illuminated by the Spirit. It helps us see things as God sees them: with clarity, compassion, and truth.

Fear of the Lord is not about being frightened by God. Rather, it is a reverent awe, a holy respect. It is the awareness of God’s majesty and our own creatureliness. This fear draws us closer, not further away, because it keeps us grounded in humility and reverence.

These two gifts are often paired because they balance one another beautifully: Knowledge enables us to discern the world through God’s eyes, while Fear of the Lord ensures we never become proud in that knowledge.

Theological Insight: Knowing as Belonging

The Spirit of Knowledge is not about accumulation of facts, but about divine intimacy. It enables us to see the world through God’s eyes—not merely what is, but what could be when touched by grace.

It teaches us:

• To discern between what is fleeting and what is eternal.
• To recognize the presence of God in creation, in others, and in ourselves.
• To detach from pride and possessions that dull our spiritual sight.

Meanwhile, the Fear of the Lord is the natural response to this knowledge. When we see God’s majesty and understand our beloved smallness, reverence is born. This is not fear of punishment, but fear of wounding love—a holy sensitivity to anything that would separate us from the One we love.

St. Hilary of Poitiers puts it beautifully:

"All our fear of God is in our love of Him."

 

Liturgical Echoes and the Saints

In the liturgy, the fear of the Lord is not a theme of despair but one of humble praise. The Preface of the Eucharistic Prayer often speaks of our voices joining with the angels “in awe and wonder.” This is fear of the Lord—not anxiety, but exaltation.

Saint Catherine of Siena, a Doctor of the Church, once prayed:

“O eternal God, You are a deep sea, in which the more I seek, the more I find, and the more I find, the more I seek to know You. You fill the soul, yet are never emptied.”

This yearning is born from the Spirit of Knowledge, and the trembling awe from such an encounter is the Fear of the Lord.

A Heart Transformed by Knowledge and Awe

When we are filled with the Spirit of Knowledge, we begin to understand the deeper purpose behind life’s events. We grow in spiritual discernment. We start to recognize God's fingerprints in creation, in suffering, in silence, in Scripture, and in the people around us.

And when we are filled with Fear of the Lord, we are no longer casual in our relationship with God. We stand in awe of His power, mercy, and love. This awe leads to trust, obedience, and a hunger for holiness.

Together, these gifts purify our vision, humble our hearts, and deepen our intimacy with God.

Holy Spirit, Help Me…

• …to see beyond surface appearances.

• …to cherish the wisdom of Scripture, saints, and the Church.

• …to be in awe of Your majesty and mercy.

• …to live each moment with reverence and gratitude.

• …to stay humble even as You reveal more of Your truth.

Examen of Knowledge: At the end of each day, reflect: Where did I perceive God today? Where did I cling to illusion rather than truth?
Act of Reverence: Bow before the tabernacle or during the Gloria with intention, acknowledging His majesty.
Silent Awe: Spend time simply resting in God's presence, allowing awe to arise not from emotion but from grace

What truth is the Spirit trying to reveal to me this week?
Open my eyes to see what You see—
the glory in the hidden, the eternal in the ordinary.
Help me to walk gently, to love truthfully, to worship reverently.
May my heart tremble not with terror but with love,
and may I never lose the wonder of being called Yours.
Amen.

Let us make space in our week for these gifts to grow:

Praying with Scripture

— Proverbs 1:7
— Psalm 139:1,6

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”

“O Lord, You have searched me and known me... Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.”

Reflection Prompt

When was the last time I stood in awe before God — not in fear, but in reverent wonder?

 

A Prayer to the Spirit of Knowledge and Fear of the Lord

Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of Knowledge and holy Fear.

 

Come Holy Spirit Series: The Spirit of Counsel and Might

 Come Holy Spirit Series

The Spirit of Counsel and Might

(Isaiah 11:2)

Scriptural Foundation

“The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.” Isaiah 11:2

This verse, often read during Advent, gives us one of the richest glimpses into the multifaceted role of the Holy Spirit. Today we focus on two attributes that are often paired together but hold distinct power: Counsel and Might.

What Is the Spirit of Counsel?

The Spirit of Counsel empowers us to discern God’s will in our lives, especially in moments of uncertainty or moral challenge. It is not just advice-giving—it is the Spirit whispering God’s wisdom deep into our hearts, forming our conscience and guiding our choices.

This is the Spirit at work:

• When we are unsure what to do next.
• When our path seems blocked.
• When we seek to do God’s will above all else.

It is the grace that leads us to:

• Prudence,
• Sound judgment,
• Discernment,
• And a deep peace in decision-making that surpasses worldly logic.

“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

 

What Is the Spirit of Might?

The Spirit of Might gives us divine strength—not necessarily physical strength, but spiritual resilience to remain faithful under pressure. It is courage in the face of fear, perseverance through trials, and holy boldness when we must speak the truth in love.

It is the gift that:

• Strengthened the martyrs to endure death.
• Enabled the apostles to preach without fear.
• Helps us today to stand firm in our faith when it is inconvenient or costly.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

 

How the Two Work Together

Counsel without Might can remain passive—knowing the right thing but fearing to act. Might without Counsel can become reckless—acting without prayerful discernment.  However, when the Holy Spirit unites these two in us:

• We know what is right through prayer, Scripture, and the Church…
• And we have the courage to live it out, even when it's difficult.

This combination is especially powerful in times of moral confusion, personal trial, or when standing up for our beliefs might cost us friendships, approval, or comfort.

 Personal Reflection

• Are there decisions in your life where you need the Spirit’s counsel?
• Do you find yourself lacking strength to follow through with what you know is right?
• Is there a person or situation where you need courage to act lovingly and truthfully?

Closing Thought

The Spirit of Counsel and Might is not just for extraordinary moments—it is for everyday holiness. May we open ourselves to this Spirit so that we may discern wisely and act bravely, becoming true disciples in word and deed.

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of Counsel and Might. Guide my decisions with Your wisdom and strengthen my heart with Your courage. Teach me to walk in the way of truth with boldness and peace. Amen.

 

Come Holy Spirit Series: The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding.

 Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit

The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding

“The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding...”  Isaiah 11:2

Opening Reflection

As we journey deeper into our relationship with the Holy Spirit, we encounter this beautiful and powerful description from the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit of the Lord is not simply a force or a breath—but one who bestows wisdom and understanding. These are not worldly traits, but spiritual gifts—graces given for discernment, insight, and the living out of God’s will.

The Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding is the one who helps us make holy decisions, not just smart ones. It is the Spirit who draws us into the mind of Christ, helping us to see as God sees, and to love as God loves.

Scripture Insights

This title is first found in Isaiah’s prophecy of the coming Messiah—a promise fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

"The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord"   Isaiah 11:2

In Christ, we see these gifts in full measure—and through the Holy Spirit given to us, we are invited to share in them. Wisdom is not simply intelligence—it is the ability to choose the greater good in light of eternity. Understanding enables us to penetrate beneath surface appearances, to grasp the deeper truths of faith and life.

St. Paul echoes this theme when he prays:

“...that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened…” Ephesians 1:17–18

This is not knowledge for its own sake, but for deeper intimacy with God.

The Spirit’s Work in Us

How does the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding move in our lives today?

In Prayer: The Spirit helps us discern God’s will and not just our own desires. Sometimes we bring confusion or uncertainty to God—but the Spirit brings clarity and peace, even if the answers are not immediate.

In Daily Decisions: Whether we are facing a family dilemma, a ministry challenge, or just the ordinary questions of daily life, the Spirit provides insight—not always loud or dramatic, but a quiet light in our conscience.

If we are not used to listening to the Voice of the Spirit or have forgotten the sound of His voice, then it is often good to invite the Holy Spirit into our lives in the everyday details of our lives.  For example: ask the Holy Spirit which way should I travel to work today- I was going to an event in the evening.  I find driving at night difficult because of other drivers lights. So I asked to the Holy Spirit to help me drive safely and get me there as it was also raining quite hard.  I thought I knew where I was going as I go to this venue often.  However I ended up in the wrong lane and had not a clue where I was going.  The Holy Spirit guided me this other way with very little oncoming traffic and as a result less bright lights in my eyes. Yes I arrived safely.

When we continually invite the Holy Spirit into the daily decisions of our lives, we get to know how He speaks to us personally. We know the sound of His Voice or the feeling of the Holy Spirit in our hearts.  

In Suffering: When life doesn’t make sense, the Spirit of Understanding gives us faith to trust in what we cannot yet see and wisdom to find meaning even in trials.

In Relationships: The Spirit teaches us when to speak, when to be silent, and how to listen with the heart. We can ask the Holy Spirit to give us the words, the body language and way of being in any situation- do I speak, do I remain silent and how to listen with compassion.

Personal Reflection

1. When have I recently experienced a moment of clarity or insight that I knew came from God?
2. Where in my life am I currently seeking wisdom or understanding?
3. Am I open to the Holy Spirit changing my perspective—even if it means letting go of my plans?

 

Prayer to the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding

Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding.

Enlighten my heart and mind so that I may know the things of God and discern His will in all I do.
Help me not to lean on my own limited understanding, but to trust in Your promptings.
When I am uncertain, bring clarity.
When I am proud, bring humility.
When I am scattered, bring focus.
Amen.

Spirit of Jesus, rest upon me, that I may live with the mind of Christ.

 

 

Come Holy Spirit Series: Holy Spirit As Teacher

 Come Holy Spirit Series

Come Holy Spirit

 The Holy Spirit as Teacher

1. Introduction: A Personal Invitation to Learn

As we move into the final seven weeks of the year, we return our gaze to the Holy Spirit—not just as a force, a gift, or a comforter—but as Teacher. In a world saturated with information, endless content, and constant advice, how comforting it is to know that God has given us a personal, divine teacher in the Holy Spirit. He teaches not through noise, but through the still, small voice that leads us into truth, gently forming our hearts to mirror the heart of Christ.

In 

2. Scriptural Anchor: John 14:26

“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have said to you.”

— John 14:26

Jesus promised the disciples that they would not be left alone. After His ascension, the Holy Spirit would come—not just as a helper, but as a teacher. This role of teaching involves revealing, explaining, reminding, and illuminating. The Spirit doesn’t introduce random new truths, but brings to life the teachings of Jesus in a way that speaks personally to each of us.

3. The Holy Spirit Teaches Personally and Continually

Unlike human teachers, the Holy Spirit does not operate only during fixed hours. His classroom is our daily life:

• In prayer, He gently reveals a deeper meaning behind a familiar passage.

In suffering, He unveils truths we couldn’t grasp in times of ease.

In joy, He deepens our gratitude and shows us God’s goodness more clearly.

H He does so patiently. He doesn't rush. He knows how to teach in stages, helping us understand what we are ready to receive. This makes His teaching formative, not just informative.

4. What Kind of Teacher Is the Holy Spirit?

• He is gentle – not forcing or shaming, but inviting and correcting with love.

• He is wise – always speaking in ways that suit our capacity and situation.

• He is persistent – returning again and again to teach the same truth until it sinks deep.

• He is freeing – leading us not into fear or rigidity, but into deeper trust and surrender.

He does not just convey knowledge. He helps us become what we learn.

5. What Does the Holy Spirit Teach?

• The Truth of God’s Word: He helps us interpret Scripture rightly, making it living and active in our lives.
  
• The Character of Christ: He forms us in Christlikeness—humility, love, mercy, justice.
  
• Our Identity in God: He confirms that we are children of God (Romans 8:16).
  
• Discernment: He trains us to distinguish God’s voice from the noise of the world or our own ego.
  
• How to Love: Ultimately, every lesson from the Holy Spirit leads us to love more deeply—God, neighbour, and even ourselves rightly.

6. Listening to the Teacher: How Do We Learn?

To learn from the Holy Spirit, we must be willing to be taught. That means:

• Silence and attentiveness: Making space each day to listen.
• Surrender and openness: Letting go of preconceived ideas or control.
• Obedience: Acting on what we learn, even if it stretches us.
• Scripture: Remaining rooted in God’s Word, which the Spirit illuminates.

Prayer: Asking, “Holy Spirit, what are You teaching me today?”

He may teach us through people, situations, music, nature, or a single sentence in a homily. The key is to cultivate a heart that is ready to notice and respond.

7. A Reflection

Take a moment now to ponder:

• “Holy Spirit, what are You teaching me in this season of my life?”
• “What lesson have You repeated over and over again lately?”
• “Where have I been resisting Your instruction—perhaps by clinging to fear, pride, or comfort?”

It may help to write these down or share with a trusted friend or spiritual mentor. Sometimes the act of reflection opens us to fresh insight from the Spirit.

8. Final Encouragement

You are not walking through life unaccompanied. Every step, every question, every challenge is a classroom moment. The Holy Spirit is not just giving you answers; He is forming you in wisdom, trust, and love. Let Him be your Teacher this week. Ask for the grace to be His student.

 Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit, Divine Teacher and Guide.

Teach me in the silence of my heart.

Remind me of Jesus’ words and help me understand them deeply.

When I stray, correct me gently.

When I am slow to learn, be patient with me.

When I am ready to act, give me courage.

Above all, teach me how to love more like Jesus.

Amen.