Many people wonder how Jesus, who ascended into heaven, can still be truly present in our world today. This is where the mystery of the Holy Spirit becomes so beautiful — for it is through the Spirit that Christ remains near, alive, and active among us.
When Jesus promised His disciples, “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20), He was speaking about the gift of the Holy Spirit. At Pentecost, that promise was fulfilled. The same Spirit who filled Jesus’ life and mission now fills His Church and every believer. Wherever the Spirit moves, there we find the living presence of Christ — healing, forgiving, and bringing peace.
The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus first through the Word of God. When we listen to Scripture with open hearts, it is the Spirit who makes those words come alive. A passage we’ve read many times can suddenly touch us deeply — that’s not coincidence, but the gentle whisper of the Spirit showing us Jesus’ voice speaking personally to us.
The Spirit also reveals Jesus in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. In every Mass, it is by the power of the Holy Spirit that bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ. The Spirit makes Jesus truly present — not as a memory, but as a living reality we can encounter, adore, and receive.
And finally, the Spirit reveals Jesus through love at work in the world. Whenever mercy triumphs over hatred, forgiveness heals division, or hope rises from despair, it is the Spirit showing the face of Christ. The Church calls the Spirit the “Soul of the Church,” because through believers who live in charity, Christ continues to walk among us.
May we allow the Holy Spirit to open our eyes and hearts each day — to recognize Jesus not only in prayer or worship, but in every act of love, every moment of truth, and every sign of hope that shines in our world.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
