Jesus Christ, You Are My Life

Today the Church around the world celebrated it’s “birthday” and the end of the Easter Season.  In writing this today, I am reminded of my confirmation by Bishop John Nevins in Sarasota, FL where the holy spirit was invoked upon us and given to us that evening sacramentally in confirmation. The Spirit who was given to us is powerful, often symbolized by the images of wind and fire as depicted in our scriptures. That night, the spirit came into our hearts and healed all of our worries, concerns, hurts, and pains. Everything.


The Holy Father reflects in his own homily today on how we are “being sent forth, to proclaim the Gospel to all.” He goes on to state “We are sent into the world not only geographically but also beyond the frontiers of race and religion, for a truly universal mission (Redemptoris Missio). It is through the works of the Holy Spirit that we are able to do this through his power.


The Prayer Over the People at confirmation is profound in stating, “May they (the confirmands) never be ashamed to proclaim to all the world, Christ crucified, living and reigning, forever and ever.” This proclamation to the world is reflected in our displays of forgiveness, welcome, life, and respect. I emphasize, as the Holy Father did, the welcoming of everyone, just as Christ instructed at the great feast in Matthew’s Gospel, everyone including the good and the bad. 


I was listening to the great hymn of many World Youth Day celebrations, Jesus Christ, You Are My Life by Italian composer Marco Frisina. The verses are very appropriate for Pentecost and the conclusion of the Easter Season, as this solemnity is a culmination of the great mysteries of faith and the beginning of the great mission. Frisina offers for us the following: “Holy fire, come dwell in each heart. Grant us the gifts your love imparts. Free our tongues to boldly proclaim, Jesus is Lord forever!” He goes on to conclude the hymn, writing “To whom do all praises belong? Jesus, my life, my joy, my song! Every people, in every age, sing and declare your goodness.” 


May we recognize our God, Father, Son, and Spirit, as our life. Alleluia, Alleluia! 

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