# We must be Spirit-filled witnesses
*2014-12-04*

> Reflecting on the first week of Advent, Bill Young discusses the necessity of prayer and the Holy Spirit in ensuring our service and evangelization are fruitful.

## The Danger of Fruitless Activity

Today is Friday of the first week of Advent. We are reading from the book 'Our Advent Journey with Christ,' featuring the words of Pope Francis. One particular quote really struck me: 'Without prayer, all activity risks being fruitless and our message empty.' This hit me hard because I do a lot of volunteer work, and it made me realize that without prayer, that work can be empty.

## Being a Temple of the Spirit

In today's reading, we are reminded that we must be Spirit-filled witnesses. As 1 Corinthians 3:16 asks, 'Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?' Being Spirit-filled means being fearlessly open to the work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit grants us the courage to proclaim the newness of the Gospel with boldness in every time and place, even when we meet with opposition.

## Evangelization Beyond Duty

Jesus wants evangelizers who proclaim the good news not only with words, but above all by a life transfigured by God's presence. When we say something is 'spirited,' we usually refer to an interior impulse that encourages, motivates, nourishes, and gives meaning to our individual and communal activity. Spirit-filled evangelization is not the same as simply carrying out tasks dutifully, despite one's own personal inclinations and wishes.

## The Fire of the Holy Spirit

I long to find the right words to stir up an emphasis for a new chapter of evangelization—one full of fervor, joy, generosity, courage, boundless love, and attraction. Yet, I realize no words of encouragement will be enough unless the fire of the Holy Spirit burns in our hearts. Spirit-filled evangelization is guided by the Holy Spirit, who is the soul of the Church called to proclaim the Gospel.

*Jesus, help me to allow the Holy Spirit to energize me.*