Thirty-first Day
We see another great change in the apostles by means of the presence of the Holy Ghost; they surprise us by the bold stand they take before the Jewish authorities. We know they were timid and cowardly at the apprehension of Our Lord, and were almost scandalized at His death on the cross. Now they challenge the Jews with a freedom of speech that the chief priests are unable to explain; they face the wrath of the Jewish council, the Sanhedrim; and undismayed they say: “Judge for yourselves if it be just in the sight of God to hear you, rather than God.” If then the apostles become such perfect men by the influence of the Holy Ghost, is it not worth our while also to remain in prayer and meditation on the power of the Holy Ghost, in order that we too may be changed from such weaklings and become strong Christians? How little have we in us of this Holy Spirit, how unwilling we are to suffer, how prone to avoid all that is opposed to our natural inclinations! This should be different; and it can only be different by heeding the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. With this intention and for this purpose let us devote some time, now and then, to the stirring up within us of the grace of the Holy Ghost.
Prayer.
Come, Holy Ghost, fill the hearts of Thy faithful, etc., etc.