Monday
of the Seventh Week of Easter
(Acts 19:1-8; John 16:29-33)
Memorial Day used to be commonly known
as Decoration Day. On this day Americans
traditionally put flowers on the graves of their deceased loved ones. The custom started after the Civil War which
claimed more Americans lives than any other war. In time people decorated the graves of all
loved ones, not just fallen soldiers.
Flowers symbolize new life. They are fitting especially for Christian graves
because Christians believe that the dead will live again. The Holy Spirit will reintegrate their bodies
with their souls. Then they will praise
God in joy for eternity. We have a
foreshadowing of this day in today’s first reading.
Paul meets twelve Ephesians who identify
with the Jesus. Perhaps because they do
not exhibit much joy, Paul asks if they have received the Holy Spirit. When they admit ignorance of the Spirit, Paul
baptizes them in Jesus’ name. The effect
is wonderful. The Spirit moves the
Ephesians to express themselves exuberantly telling the wonders of God.
