Home
Reflection on this Sunday's scripture readings
The Charism of Sion
The Family of Sion
Sion in the UK and Ireland
Events
News
Our History
More about Sion
Links
Acts 15:1-2, 22-29 Apocalypse 21:10-14, 22-23 Psalm 66 John 14:23-29
The readings today prepare us for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. In the Acts of the Apostles we hear that the Spirit leads the Church. When the Christian message was first taken to the pagans, a dispute arose as to whether these converts had to become Jews before becoming Christians. The first Christians were Jews and continued to observe the laws and traditions after his death while also celebrating the Day of the risen Lord. There followed a great discussion (known as the Council of Jerusalem) with opinions divided about this matter. The decision was made that these new Christians would not be required to observe the whole of the law but just to keep those laws in the book of Leviticus that aliens living in the land of Israel should keep.
In today's gospel Jesus promises his apostles that even when he has left them, his peace will remain. The Holy Spirit will be sent in his name to be their teacher and guide. The peace of Jesus will be with us too if we make our home with him and speak to him in prayer. Let the words of Jesus touch you this week so that he can make his home with you and bring peace to your hearts and to the world. Make space for the Spirit in your lives so that he can fill you with his gifts.