Sunday Warm-Up – Change

May 22 John 14:23-29 Change

Change is never easy but big change often brings conflict. Our readings this weekend address change on this scale. In the first reading from the Acts, we hear about the Jerusalem council, the big moment when Christianity broke from its Jewish roots and opened its doors to the Gentiles (us). It was a change that many could not swallow and it intensely divided the early church. This kind of change has been a part of our history ever since. We experience it today evident by the tension we feel in the Church. Jesus’ answer to us in the Gospel is simply the Holy Spirit “will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” Conflict is inevitable, but Jesus assures us that His presence through the Holy Spirit is just as reliable. Working through our differences lies in opening our hearts to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, listening to each other, and being open to where this process might lead us.