God invites us to ask, seek and knock -- and He will answer.
It seems, though, that often when I ask for something, I aim too low. I forget that God is big, powerful and infinite. His mercy and graces are like oceans, and I go to Him equipped with a spoon.
Thankfully, the Holy Spirit is at work everywhere inspiring and helping us, especially through the church and her sacraments, Scriptures, saints and teachings. Through these gifts, the Holy Spirit teaches us to pray.
A wise priest recently said that when He prays for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, he asks for a "double portion," following the example of the Old Testament prophet Elisha in 2 Kings 2:9:
"When they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, “Request whatever I might do for you, before I am taken from you.” Elisha answered, “May I receive a double portion of your spirit."
Another wise person prayed that God would send two guardian angels to protect someone in harm's way. I'm amazed when people are inspired to pray in such ways, asking the Lord for things I would never think to ask for, and having full confidence that their Father will hear and answer them.
It shows their connection to the Holy Spirit, who helps them pray and intercedes for them, sometimes in ways we cannot fathom.
Please, Lord, as we celebrate Your Ascension into Heaven and await Pentecost, we ask You to send us Your Spirit. Give us a double portion of the Holy Spirit, especially for those about to be confirmed, for Father Damian as he prepares for his new assignment at St. Frances Cabrini, for our new pastor Fr. Dave Reeson and all our priests, deacons and parishioners.
Come, Holy Spirit, come!
Inspired by the Year of Faith, Susan Szalewski began writing weekly columns for us. Although that year is over, we liked them so well that we asked her to keep writing. Thankfully, she said yes. So watch for these on Thursdays and see the Year of Faith Blog here.
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