Open Your Hearts to the Holy Spirit

Homily for Tuesday of the Third Week in Easter

In the first reading, Stephen stands before those who cannot bear the truth he speaks. His words—“You always resist the Holy Spirit”—are not an accusation meant to condemn, but a plea for conversion. Stephen sees what they cannot: that God is trying to break into their lives, and they are pushing Him away. Even as stones strike him, Stephen’s gaze remains fixed on Christ. His final breath is not anger, but mercy.

The psalm echoes that same trust: “Into your hands I commend my spirit.” These are not words of defeat. They are words of surrender—of handing over control, fear, and self-protection to the God who is faithful.

Then in the Gospel, the crowd asks Jesus for a sign, as though God has not already given them countless signs. Jesus responds by offering not a miracle, but Himself: “I am the bread of life.” He is saying, in effect, “You don’t need more proof. You need Me.”

Put together, the readings ask a simple but challenging question: Where do we resist the Holy Spirit because we are still waiting for a sign that God has already given?

Stephen shows us what it looks like to let the Spirit in—courage, clarity, mercy. The psalm shows us how to pray when we’re afraid—by entrusting everything into God’s hands. And Jesus shows us what God ultimately offers—His very life, His very self, as the bread that sustains us.

Today, the invitation is quiet but firm: Stop waiting for perfect conditions. Stop waiting for more signs. Open your heart. Receive the Bread of Life. Let the Spirit do His work.