In today's first reading, Acts 16: 1-10, Paul travels to several place and in one of them is introduced to Timothy, a Greek and a Jew. He is so impressed by this man that he invites him to join him in spreading the good news of Jesus' resurrection. On the way, the Spirit leads them. Sometimes the "door" is open to a certain place and at others times closed as Luke, the author of the Acts of the Apostles, tells us: the Holy Spirit "prevented [them] from preaching the message" in certain places. Paul and Timothy followed the Spirit's lead each time. As a result, "the churches grew stronger in faith and increased in number."
What about you and me? Do we follow the Spirit lead? Do we recognize when "a door" is closed or do we force our way into the heart of another person? On the other hand, do we recognize when "the door" is open and take advantage of the situation? The open or closed "door" might even be our own hearts. Do we recognize that situation, as well, and take the needed steps to become open to the Holy Spirit at work within us? If not, what do I need to do to soften the soil of my hardened heart? Seek silence? Take a walk in nature? Stop in before the Blessed Sacrament and wait upon the Lord? Speak to a loved one? Play with a child? Complete a responsibility that I have been avoiding?
May we take the time to grow in the faith, that is, to strengthen our faith!
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