LED BY THE SPIRIT, By Fr Oluwafemi Victor Orilua CSSp

HOMILY OF SATURDAY OF THE 5TH WEEK OF EASTER.

Acts 16:1-10, John 15:18-21

THEME: LED BY THE SPIRIT

It is important to know that one may be pushed to choose who to minister to, or lobby for where to work as a minster of the gospel, however, our ministry becomes fruitful only when we allow ourselves to be led by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit works with those who have authority over us in our placement into missions and equally works directly with us on the mission field to fit well into our mission priorities. If because of personal gain, we decide how we want our work to be, we will constantly suffer the pain of an unfulfilled life. On such enterprise, we may be successful but not faithful. The Lord Jesus would say, “I chose you. You did not choose me.” John 15:16.

In today’s first reading, as Paul travelled with Timothy, “they travelled through Phrygia and the Galatian country, having been told by the Holy Spirit not to preach the word in Asia. When they reached the frontier of Mysia they thought to cross it into Bithynia, but as the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them, they went through Mysia and came down to Troas.”

Paul, like the other apostles, punctuated their missionary journey with constant listening to the promptings of the Spirit.

Likewise, in our human endeavours, where we are all called to exhibit Godly values and make him known in words and deeds, it is necessary that we always submit ourselves to the leading of the Spirit.

May the Spirit of the Lord always guide our paths. Amen.