Lectionary: 55
Read: John 14:15-21
Gospel Summary
At the Last Supper Jesus told his apostles he would be leaving them to return to the Father. In today's Gospel, he reassures them and us that we will not be alone. The Holy Spirit was sent to the disciples and is with each of us as a special helper and friend until Jesus returns to us. In the meantime, we continue to show our love for Jesus by following his commandments.
Reflection for Families
When children are orphaned, they often hold on to something to remind them of whose they are. Orphan Annie had a half of a locket, Oliver Twist had a letter, and some victims of the holocaust had smuggled photographs. Even without the physical presence of their parents, orphaned children very much felt connected to their parents. This is the image Jesus gives us in the Gospel as well. He explains that it is the Holy Spirit that is with us and helps us know we are God's. It is this Spirit that guides us to live the way God wants us to. The Spirit comes to us in a special way at our baptism and guides us, even to our surprise sometimes, and helps us follow the commandments of God.
Bringing the Gospel Into Your Family
Recall that wind is a symbol of the Spirit. Walk outside and feel the wind. Is it a gentle breeze today or is it gusting? Think about why the wind is considered a symbol of the Holy Spirit. As the Holy Spirit leads us and guides us like the wind, are we gently moved or sometimes does it take a hurricane wind to get us moving? Think of some things your family has been guided to do by the Holy Spirit. Also consider some things the Spirit might be calling you to presently.
Discussion Starters
1. I know the Holy Spirit was guiding me directly once when . . .
2. I have felt orphaned before, but I know the Spirit was with me because . . .
3. I have seen the Spirit at work in our parish when . . .
Connection to Faith First© Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 16
Kindergarten, chapter 16
Grade 1, chapter 11 and page 277 parish and page 381 school
Grade 2, chapter 12 and page 277 parish and page 381 school
Grade 3, chapter 12 and page 277 parish and page 381 school
Grade 4, chapter 12 and page 277 parish and page 381 school
Grade 5, chapter 12 and page 277 parish and page 381 school
Grade 6, chapter 13 and page 277 parish and page 381 school
Junior High, Church and Sacraments, chapter 8
Junior High, Mystery of God, chapter 11
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