The Holy Spirit will convict the world

Readings: 1^st: Acts 16:22-34; Ps: 138; Gos: Jn 15: 5-11

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com 

Today is Tuesday of the fifth week of Easter. Today’s gospel reading is very brief. However, it is very revealing and encouraging.  

This is especially, for all true and faithful disciples of Christ, who patiently, are waiting for the fulfillment of the promise of their Lord and Savior.

In the past days, Christ has continued to reiterate his promise to send us the Holy Spirit. He has also told us some of the functions, and the works that the Holy Spirit will realize. He will be the Advocate, the Counselor, and our helper.

Today, Christ goes further to reveal to us another very important function and mission of the Holy Spirit: “When he comes, he will convict the world in regard to sin, righteousness and condemnation.”

the Paraclete is the accuser in a process that is carried out before God. The accused is the world, which has made itself guilty for condemning Christ.

This is a serious mission! What does Christ mean by the world? He means people. The Holy Spirit will accuse, judge and convict those who, in spite of hearing the good news, refused to believe in Christ.

The good news is that, this accusation, judgement and conviction is not for true believers. Paul tells us: “There is now, no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death” (Rom 8:1-2).

So, as we wait for the fulfillment of this promise, let us ask Christ to keep us faithful until the Holy Spirit comes. Alleluia, alleluia!

Peace be with you all!

Maranatha!