Catholic homily for Monday of the 2nd Week of Easter
Theme: Living in the Spirit
By: Fr. Francis Onwnali
Homily for Monday April 12 2021
The readings of today, Monday in the Second Week of Easter, speak to us on the actions of the Holy Spirit in the renewal of our lives. The Holy Spirit as the Giver of Life, empowers us in faithfulness to fulfill God’s plan, even when evil stands on the way.
In the first reading (Acts 4: 23-31), when Peter and John were released from the prison there was joy among the brethren and they prayed for assurance and boldness to proclaim the goodness of God. As they prayed, “they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to proclaim the word of God boldly” (Acts 4:23-31).
In the gospel (John 3: 1-8), overwhelmed by the mighty deeds of Jesus, Nicodemus, a leading Jew, decided to consult Jesus and also acknowledge His goodness. In response, Jesus offered him salvation- to be born of water and the spirit; to be born from above as the only way to enter the Kingdom of God.
Dear friends, do you know what it means to be reborn in the Spirit? This new birth that Jesus speaks of is a spiritual birth to a life that is transformed by the power of God. It makes us adopted sons and daughters of God (Rom. 6:4); and brings us into God’s kingdom of righteousnees, peace and joy (Rom. 14: 17). Living in the Spirit entails total surrender to the will of God and experiencing the joy and freedom of God’s children.
I pray as we journey in life today, we will trustingly join the Apostles to pray for the Spirit of boldness to proclaim the Good News: “And now, Lord, take note of their threats and help your servants to proclaim your message with boldness, by stretching out your hand to heal and to work miracles and marvels through the name of your holy Servant Jesus” (Acts 4: 29-30). Lord, may you take note of the turbulence in our lives and our world, and stretch out Your hands to heal us. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit so as to be renewed and recreated. Have a Renewal-full day!
-Fr. Francis Onwnali