The Spirit sets us free

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Today's readings present a freedom that only God can give. This freedom does not make sense to the carnal mind that outwardly defines us by worldly accomplishments, possessions and prestige. The freedom of God's Spirit, poured into our hearts (Rom 5:5), defines us from within. The Gospel reading (Jn 3:7b-15 ) presents Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus. Nicodemus is a member of the ruling Sanhedrin, a Pharisee and secret believer in Jesus. Jesus tells him, “You must be born from above.” The Lord continues: “The wind blows where it wills, and you can hear the sound it makes, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Jesus, the Son of Man, must be “lifted up”, “just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert... so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.”

The Holy Spirit, like the wind, blows where it wills – the Holy Spirit is free! The first reading (Acts 4:32-37 ) tells us something about what this freedom looked like for the early Church. This freedom was not about possessing; it was about the common good:

“The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common. With great power the Apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great favor was accorded them all. There was no needy person among them, for those who owned property or houses would sell them, bring the proceeds of the sale, and put them at the feet of the Apostles, and they were distributed to each according to need.”

St. Paul tells us in Galatians 5:1, “for freedom, Christ has set us free.” Paul's immediate emphasis here is freedom from legalistic requirements such as circumcision and dietary laws, to be a member of the Christian community. But he goes on, stating we are set free by Christ to serve one another in love:

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'” (Gal 5:13-14)

The early Christians were a persecuted minority – the Spirit freed them to live in love, rather than fear. Today, many of our freedoms cannot be taken for granted. Looming political, economic and food supply disruptions seem to threaten our freedom on many levels. Could it be that the Spirit's gift of freedom is about to blossom in this age?

Come Holy Spirit. Help me to surrender to Your gift of freedom – with my family, neighbours and those whom You send seeking signs of Christ's love. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Link to readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/042622.cfm



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