Daily Gospel Reflection for July 16, 2022

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

“I shall place my spirit upon him.”

In today’s Gospel, Matthew quotes this verse from Isaiah as being fulfilled by Jesus. We, too, as Confirmed Catholics, received the blessing of having God’s Spirit placed upon us. With this blessing comes an expectation to help spread the Good News and bring hope to all peoples just as Isaiah predicted.

Our faithful church-goers need to be the voice of hope crying out in this chaotic, divided world. It is up to us to share what our belief in a loving Father has done for us and can do for others. We are charged with the responsibility of living up to higher standards so others see what joy and peace we live with. It is important we don’t contribute to the anger and disrespect for life by our words, spreading gossip or sharing posts that aren’t positive. It is not our place to judge others for their decisions. Imagine what Jesus would say in those circumstances and always respond in love as He would.

Having the Holy Spirit inside of us means we have the blessing of the fruits He provides: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Turn to the Holy Spirit and ask His help to build up these qualities within you so that you can be a faith-spreading disciple of Jesus too.

Ponder:

For which fruit of the Holy Spirit could you ask for an increase to be a better Catholic?

Pray:

Dear God, thank You for sending Your Spirit inside me. Help me to be a living example of Jesus by showing others Your peace and love today through my thoughts, words and actions.