Sixth Sunday of Easter
I remember the day of my Confirmation like it was yesterday. I was nervous but excited. The bishop laid his hands on me, and I felt like something real had just happened. But then life kind of just… went on. I didn’t suddenly feel holier or wiser. I still struggled with prayer, got distracted in Mass, and messed up like any other person. I found myself wondering, did anything actually change?
In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus is talking to His disciples during one of their last conversations before His death. They had been walking with Him for years — hearing His teachings, seeing His miracles. But now, He’s preparing them for what comes next. He tells them something powerful, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.”
Jesus knew they’d be scared and confused. He knew life would get messy. But He also knew they wouldn’t be alone.
This takes on a whole new meaning once you’ve been Confirmed. You know that same Holy Spirit Jesus promised to the Apostles? He’s been given to you! Most of us were sealed with that gift during Confirmation, even if we didn’t totally understand what was happening. Whether you’ve just been Confirmed or will be soon, this reading is a reminder that God has moved into your life in a real way.
The Holy Spirit isn’t just some abstract force. He’s your guide when you’re stuck, your comfort when you’re anxious, and your reminder of everything Jesus said, especially when life throws doubts your way.
Jesus also says something else we really need to hear, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.”
It’s easy to look for peace in popularity, success, or even just a good playlist and a night off from homework. But Jesus offers a peace that sticks with you, even when nothing else is going right. The world’s peace fades, but the Holy Spirit doesn’t.
So, if you’re feeling disconnected from your faith, unsure if Confirmation “worked,” or just tired, remember this: You’re not alone. The Holy Spirit is with you and is active, alive, and ready to help you live out your faith, no matter where you are on the journey.
Take a second this week to talk to Him. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Try praying something simple like, “Come Holy Spirit. Help me. Teach me. Be with me.”
And He will.