In his daily homily at Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis reflected on the Holy Spirit. He said it supports and helps one overcome difficulties in life.
POPE FRANCIS
“The word 'Paraclete' means 'that which is with me to support me.' Its so I may not fall, so I may go on, so that my spirit may remain youthful. A Christian is always young. However, when the heart of a Christian begins to age, so does his or her Christian vocation diminish.”
He concluded by encouraging Christians to speak to the Holy Spirit who will restore and bring them back to youthfulness.
EXTRACTS FROM POPE'S HOMILY
(Source Vatican News)
The disciples, he noted, are sad to hear that their Master will soon leave them, but Jesus reproaches them pointing out that although “grief has filled your hearts, (…) it is better for you that I go.”
“A Christian is always young,”
“Either you are young in heart and soul, or you are not fully Christian.”
The pope said that there is sorrow and pain in all of our lives, but he highlighted the example of Paul and Silas who were beaten and were suffering, and yet, he said “they were full of joy, they sang…”
“It is the great gift that Jesus left us: this support, which allows us to go forward.”
“speak to the Spirit who will give you support and restore your youthfulness.”
“the soul ages, everything ages.”
“we feel that the Spirit helps us to move forward (...) and to overcome difficulties. Even martyrdom.”
Let us ask the Lord not to lose this renewed youthfulness, not to be Christians who have retired and have lost their joy,” he said: “a Christian never retires, a Christian lives because he is young - when he is a true Christian”.
