+ In our first reading today we have the rough outline of the division of the Church's sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. We see that before the laying on of hands and the coming of the Spirit with its gifts, there is to the baptism that the Lord himself commanded before his Ascension into heaven. These two sacraments are to be the welcoming ceremonies that bring people into the Church – making them first God's children, brothers and sisters to one another and to Christ Jesus himself - and then renewed at each celebration of the "family meal" – The Eucharist – that Jesus gave to be our spiritual food for our pilgrimage through life!
Millions have been added to our Church family in two thousand years – they are still being added, most likely daily or weekly. The Father rejoices to have new children added to the numbers!
In the gospel passage Jesus tells the disciples – who are so eager to get one step ahead of him in their understanding of the mysteries of his life – let the situation unfold as it will – which will not be pleasant for anyone involved – but remember that even though they would abandon him, he would never be alone because the Father is always with him; and he would be at peace because of the presence of the Spirit – who is also available to us because Jesus has indeed overcome the world. When we feel abandoned at times – and who doesn't – we need to know that Jesus, his Father and their Spirit are with us because we are baptized and confirmed and fed eucharistically the very bread of Life!
Sing to God, chant praise to his name for he is Lord of all!
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