6TH WEEK OF EASTER

I have told you this so that you may not fall away.

If you have ever moved to a new location, you know how easy it can be to “fall away” from old friends. At first, you may keep up with phone calls, but then the calls become less frequent. Over time, calls become replaced with occasional check-ins on social media and annual Christmas cards, until you lose touch altogether.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus warns his disciples that they, too, risk falling away—from him—as a result of the hardships they will face in preaching the gospel (John 16:2). We can imagine them enthusiastically soldiering through all manner of rejection and persecution at first, but then gradually deciding that discipleship is simply too hard. Their efforts slowly weaken, and they eventually return to their former lives.

But we know this didn’t happen. Why? Because of the Holy Spirit, the “Advocate” whom Jesus sent to them (John 15:26). Jesus knew that their human efforts alone would not be enough to carry them through the difficulties of evangelizing and leading the Church. But he also knew that if they relied on the Spirit even as they worked hard, their faith would be built up. And that would help keep them from falling away.

The Holy Spirit wants to keep the flame of faith alive in you, too. The demands of daily life, fear of change, and worldly distractions are just some of the subtle forces and challenges that can sneak up and take your focus off Jesus. That’s why it’s so important that you keep asking the Spirit for his guidance and his power throughout your day. He may respond by bringing an upbuilding Scripture passage to mind. Maybe he will help you make a difficult decision. Or perhaps he will give you an extra outpouring of patience or humility when you need it the most.

Whether life is going smoothly or about to overwhelm you, the Holy Spirit is always with you. He is your Advocate who is always ready to fill your heart with grace and to keep you connected with Jesus.

“Jesus, I don’t ever want to fall away from you! Thank you for sending me your Spirit to help me stay close to you.”

Acts 16:11-15
Psalm 149:1-6, 9
John 15:26-16:4