In today’s readings, many will recognize the Word’s powerful message and correlate it with today’s pandemic by encouraging us to find joy and comfort, even through challenging times.
 
The First Reading illustrates Philip’s proclamation of Christ in Samaria, and details the city full of people who are sick and possessed.   The people of Samaria opened their hearts to the Word of God after hearing of the many miracles that Philip performed.  Because of their openness to God, Philip was able to continue to remove bad spirits and heal the sick.  As a result, the city was filled with joy.  
 
I am reminded of the great joy that Christ brings after reading about God’s work through Philip.   The hearts of the people of Samaria were changed after being introduced to God’s Word, which opened them up to healing and many other miracles.  However, Peter and John’s actions remind us that although we can find joy in listening to God’s Word, our joy remains incomplete until we allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. These days, it is easy to feel discouraged and consumed with uncertainty.  But, there is hope!  The reason for our hope is in God’s goodness and gift of the Holy Spirit.  We can allow the Holy Spirit, which we have received in baptism, to lead us through these difficult times, especially when our days seem to be filled with sorrow, loneliness, or even fear.  
 
The Gospel according to John reassures us that we are not alone in this challenging fight with fear.  The world teaches us that only things that can be seen or felt are what is real and what truly matters.  We are made to feel hopeless amidst the overwhelming news of outbreaks and illnesses, and many of us remain separated from our families and friends.  Some of us may even be in quarantine and are truly isolated and alone.  Jesus tells us differently… We are NOT alone. Our hope lies in His truth:  in this season of our lives when many of us are isolated or are feeling forsaken, we are granted the gift of the Holy Spirit so He can remain with us at all times.  We are empowered by our Advocate, and are not alone because through the Holy Spirit, He remains within us.  By trusting in God’s goodness, we can find peace and shelter from fear that the world so freely gives.
 
~ Evangeline de la Fuente Pabalan
Evangeline is a 7th grade student at Pope John Middle School. She serves as a lector at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.