Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter May 21, 2004 Scripture: Acts 18:9-18; John 16:20-23 Reflection: Jesus prepares his disciples for his return to the Father. He does not leave them without hope. To encourage them, he uses the parable of the woman in labor, who after the birth of her child, no longer remembers the pain, but knows only joy for the life of this child. The disciples have the promise of true joy after the ascension of Jesus, as well as the assurance of the help of the Spirit if they would ask the Father. Jesus had to assure them that they would receive the Paraclete only if he returned to the Father. Paul on his journey in Corinth was also encouraged to continue his preaching and not to be fearful. He continued to preach God’s Word even to the point of having to face the proconsul when accused by the Jews. The success of his journeys shows his openness to the Spirit in his life. Suggested Action: Each day, like the Apostles and Paul, we may be asked to face hardships, to show courage in our actions, to speak out against evil. If we work to develop our relationship with the Holy Spirit, we will find the courage we need to be Christ’s presence in the world today, and like Paul, we will help others to know Christ’s presence in their lives. Sr. M. Francine Connolly, IHM Manhasset, New York