„What? What Spirit?“ The disciples Paul met in Ephesus did not know that there was any Holy Spirit, nor that Jesus was the Messiah. But when Paul preached the good news to them and prayed with them, their eyes were opened, and they saw the spiritual gifts that belonged to them through Christ from that moment on. The Ephesian disciples knew that the Holy Spirit had descended on them„ because they could prophesy and speak in the languages that God had given them, “compare. Acts 19, 6). Such manifestations were a clear sign of the presence of the Spirit in the early Church (see 1 Cor 12, 4-11); even today, some believers experience these charismatic gifts. But although the gift of prophesying and speaking in tongues are among the more visible signs of the Holy Spirit, the Scriptures also mention other gifts of the Spirit that we can experience (see Isa 11, 2-3):
• when you ask for guidance in prayer and some wise thought comes to mind, that too is the gift of the Holy Spirit; • when you find yourself tempted to do or say something reckless, but then you think of praying first Hail Mary, thanks to which you can finally resist it – know that it was advice from the Holy Spirit; • when you desire recognition for your performance, the fear of the Lord will remind you that all your gifts and talents come from God; • when you are confused about some moral question of the teaching of the Church and come across a book that will make you understand the matter better, the Spirit grants you reason and knowledge; • when you are already at the end of your strength, but still persevere in faith, that fills you with the Spirit of strength; • when you experience restlessness, but during the Holy Mass you suddenly feel that God loves you, the Spirit gives you piety. Pentecost is approaching.
So let’s ask the Holy Spirit to fill us with his gifts so we can serve him and his mysterious body even better. Don’t be afraid to beg boldly and expectantly. Remember that God „ does not give His Spirit according to measure“ (compare Jn 3, 34) – so he doesn’t just give it a little, as if for rationing. You may need strength or wisdom during this period of your life. Perhaps you would like to experience one of his charisms. Whatever it is, don’t be shy to beg. God always wants to give you more than you want to get from him.
Come, Holy Spirit! Abound and increase your gifts in me.
