In the second reading for this Sunday (Rom 8:9, 11-13) St. Paul reminds the Romans that they are “not in the flesh; but in the Spirit”. Therefore, I thought of focusing this weeks Pastor’s Corner on the signs of being the persons in the Spirit and the signs that confirm our life in the Spirit.
The signs of life in the Spirit are not primarily extraordinary gifts or emotional experiences. They are the visible transformation of a person's life through the presence of the Holy Spirit. Here are some of the clearest signs according to Scripture and the teaching of the Church.
A deep love for God. The first sign is a growing desire to know, love, and obey God. Prayer is no longer just a duty but a relationship. Jesus said, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments" (John 14:15).
Love for others. A Spirit-filled person becomes more forgiving, compassionate, and willing to serve. As St. John writes, "Those who do not love do not know God, for God is love" (1 John 4:8).
The fruit of the Holy Spirit. St. Paul gives the clearest description: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22–23). These are the true marks of spiritual maturity.
Victory over sin. While no one becomes perfect overnight, there is a sincere struggle against sin and a desire for holiness. The Spirit gives strength to say no to temptation and yes to God's will (Romans 8:13–14).
Hunger for God's Word and the Sacraments. The Spirit leads us to Scripture, especially the Eucharist and Reconciliation. We begin to find nourishment in God's Word and grace in the sacraments.
A heart of praise and gratitude. Even in trials, a person living in the Spirit learns to trust God and thank Him. St. Paul says, "Give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
A desire to witness to Christ. The Holy Spirit gives courage to speak about Jesus by word and example. Jesus promised, "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses" (Acts 1:8).
Inner peace amid difficulties. This is not the absence of suffering but confidence in God's presence. Jesus said, "My peace I give to you... Do not let your hearts be troubled" (John 14:27).
Discernment and openness to God's will. A Spirit-led person seeks God's guidance before making decisions and is willing to follow His plan, even when it is difficult.
Growth in humility. The closer we come to God, the more we recognize our dependence on Him. As St. John the Baptist said, "He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:30).
The Catholic Church reminds us that the Holy Spirit sanctifies believers through His gifts and bears fruit in their lives. The greatest evidence of the Spirit's presence is not spectacular experiences but a life that becomes more like Christ.
A good question to ask ourselves each day is not, "Have I had extraordinary spiritual experiences?" but rather, "Am I becoming more loving, more joyful, more patient, more forgiving, and more like Jesus?" If the answer is increasingly "yes," then the Holy Spirit is truly at work within us.
I wish you all a Spirit-filled week. God bless you all!
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Pope’s Prayer Intention for July
For respect for human life
Let us pray for the respect and protection of human life in all its stages, recognizing it as a gift from God.
