A Conversation with Saint Paul

How can you expect me to rejoice when my loved ones are suffering? When people are depressed? When everything is so divided?

- Saint Paul replies, “Do not reject the Spirit.”

But my spirit is heavy with grief. My soul is wracked with regret about my past. And in my bones I feel anxiety about the future. What can I do?

- “There is nothing you can do to save yourself.”

Well that’s just great.

- “Your spirit may well be heavy, your soul wracked, your bones weary. But

God’s Spirit can even now give you peace. He who calls you is faithful. He

will accomplish it.”

Where am I to receive this Spirit of peace?

- “You received Him in Baptism. The spirit of Lord came upon you. He

anointed you. And even now He would have you bring glad tidings to the

brokenhearted.”

I’m not sure that I can. Sometimes I don’t even think I want Him to accomplish that in me. I’m tired. I just want to rest.

- “In my God is the joy of my soul. My soul rejoices in my God.”

Well that’s great for you. But what about me?

- “Pray without ceasing, and in all circumstances give thanks.”

I get too distracted. Plus, I’ll be still be alone.

- “You may feel alone at times, yes. If you live by God’s Spirit in this world you

will be a voice crying out in the desert. But you will not actually be alone.

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted. And those whose spirit is crushed He

will revive.”

That sounds nice.

(Paul smiles.)

When can I expect to feel the Spirit of God in me again?

- “Why not ask for that this Christmas?” +