Third Week of Easter : Monday 15th April 2024

The psalmist’s echo “ They are happy whose life is blameless” described the fervour of Stephen, who outwitted his opponents. Interestingly enough, his nemesis were from renowned cities of Greece and Asia. They failed to stop Stephen, so they hurled false accusations against him to instigate mob violence to silence him. Here, the unstoppable work of the Spirit is distinctive in the Acts of the Apostles.

We also see in the unstoppable approach of Jesus to nourish the people, not only by His words but His acting upon it. “Do not work for food that cannot last, but work for the food that endures to eternal life.” To do this however, they must first believe and accept Him as being sent into their life.

This summons to accept Christ changed the life of St Ignatius of Loyola. During his convalescence, he daydreamed of courting a certain lady and to continue his knightly endeavours after his recovery. He also found himself attracted to the good works of the saints which he read, and he wanted to emulate them in serving God. Over time, he discovered his holy desire to emulate the saints in helping souls and serving God. It was clear to him that nothing could stop the work of the Spirit once he accepted it wholeheartedly. Let’s pause and consider what is the unstoppable good in our life.

Lord, I pray for the grace to believe You wholeheartedly and so do Your will.