Knowing Joy, Enduring Suffering, and Acting upon Love
A Reflection for the 6th Sunday of Easter
Brent Smith, Director of Adult Faith Formation & Evangelization
Euphoria – a state of mind marked by sublime joy – is a rare and fleeting reality. Achieved through a successful moment of risk, this wonderful feeling is a timeless hunger of the human heart. At the height of performance, athletes hope to experience euphoria; avid runners know what it’s like, as do the champions of competition. Within Catholicism, some saints have testimonies of euphoric moments. St. Teresa of Avila, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Margaret Mary de’ Pazzi, and St. Peter of Alcantara are among them. In the Scripture readings for this Sunday, we learn about how the early Church was marked by euphoria, along with advice on what to do in its absence, and finally the importance of steadfast love.
In the Acts of the Apostles, the Holy Spirit is working through the disciple Philip. A Samaritan community will encounter the love of Christ, further giving their lives a spirit of “great joy” or euphoria (Acts 8:9). After sharing the Gospel with them, Philip remains among them as a miracle worker and evangelist. Thanks to the willingness of his audience to accept the life of Christ, they were confirmed in the Holy Spirit, which came after Baptism (Acts 8:16). The Apostles Peter and John traveled to these Christians to preside over those Sacraments. They are filled with the presence of the Lord God!
In the second reading St. Peter brings to our attention the challenges that lay ahead for a devout Christian. By first consecrating the heart as a dwelling place for Jesus Christ, his disciples ready themselves to share the purpose for their faith. In his own words, “Always be ready to give any explanation… for your hope” (1 Peter 3:15). Even with the likelihood of being treated with opposition, Christians are to exercise the virtues of gentleness, reverence, and a pure conscience. According to such conviction, may we also look to Christ as our perfect example, especially when we endure sufferings.
In the Gospel, Jesus prompts us to obey his words as an expression of genuine love. By our obedience we will in turn befriend the Holy Spirit. If we regularly attempt to embody Christlike love, then he promises to remain with us (John 14:17-18). As we experience fleeting times of heartfelt joy and the burden of long-term suffering, our risen Lord promises to share his everlasting love with each one of us.
Please pray with me: Come Holy Spirit! Fill us with the love of the Father for the Son. Remain with us always as our advocate and guide. Amen.