Short Homily

Monday of the Sixth Week of Easter
Readings:

  • Acts 16:11–15 – The Lord opened her heart to listen to what Paul was saying.

  • Psalm 149:1b–2, 3–4, 5–6a and 9b – The Lord takes delight in His people.

  • John 15:26—16:4a – The Spirit of truth who comes from the Father will testify on my behalf.


😂 Introduction 

A young seminarian once asked, “Father, why does the Holy Spirit come as a dove?” I replied, “Because if He came like a vuvuzela, no one would listen!” Sometimes, we expect the Spirit to shout, but He often whispers — quietly guiding us, just like He did with Lydia in today’s readings.

📖 The Word of God

Today, we meet Lydia, a businesswoman from Thyatira, whose heart was opened by the Lord. She listened. She welcomed. She was baptised. This is a snapshot of what happens when the Holy Spirit begins to move — quietly, but powerfully.

In the Gospel, Jesus prepares His disciples for challenges ahead. He doesn’t sugar-coat it: “They will expel you… they will think they are offering worship to God.” But He also promises the Advocate, the Spirit of Truth. This Advocate doesn’t just defend — He empowers, testifies, and reminds us who we are.

🕊️ Eucharist

At the Eucharist today, may our hearts, like Lydia’s, be opened — not just to receive Holy Communion, but to truly welcome Christ into the centre of our lives, especially through the Holy Spirit.

❓ Question for Reflection

How open is my heart to the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit? Do I allow God to disrupt my plans like He did with Paul and Lydia?

🧭 Daily Practical Application

Make a small act of welcome today — greet a stranger, say a kind word to someone in your home or parish. You might just be the answer to someone’s silent prayer.

🛠️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

To anyone feeling unheard, unrecognised or cast aside — remember Lydia wasn’t a priest or a prophet — she was a working woman. God used her open heart to bring faith to her household. Your story, too, matters. You are part of God's plan.

🕊️ What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Take one bold step: Host a faith-sharing group in your home. Be a Lydia. Open your space — or just your heart — to welcome others on the journey of faith.

🌈 Inspiration – Pilgrims of Hope

We are not tourists in faith — we are pilgrims of hope. We may walk with tears today, but we walk toward joy. God is not finished with us yet.

🇿🇦 South African Touch

Just as Paul’s journey led him to an unexpected welcome at the river, so too, our own “rivers” — our taxis, shebeens, spaza shops, and WhatsApp groups — can become sacred spaces where God works.

💬 Inspirational Quote

"The Holy Spirit doesn’t need a microphone to speak — just a heart willing to listen."

🙏 Conclusion & Short Prayer

Let us be like Lydia — open, responsive, generous. Even in small ways, God is always seeking a home in our hearts.

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, gentle guide and Advocate, open my heart today. Whisper truth in my ears and give me courage to follow where You lead. Help me to be a pilgrim of hope in this world. Amen.

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