The ultimate “anti-Bable”

Pentecost (1732)
by Jean Restout

Musée du Louvre, Paris

Since the Ascension, the disciples had been hiding in fear.

Despite the feeling of exhilaration they experienced on their way home from the great event, they were somewhat enervated by the absence of Jesus, who had been with them, teaching, for many days after the Resurrection.

All off a sudden, with a tremendous and terrifying sound of wind that rushed through the room, though the windows and doors were closed, tongues of flame come lancing towards them, as if from nowhere, as if there were no physical barriers shutting out the threatening world.

The Holy Spirit descends upon the Church and gives the Body life.

It is the day of the Church’s birth.

The once timid disciples now rush into the streets, proclaiming the Gospel that Christ had commanded them to preach to all nations.

This is the ultimate "anti-Bable".

Whereas the human pride left man divided by language after the Flood, the event of Pentecost and the comprehension of tongues shows where real human unity is to be found.

By our Confirmation we have the inward strengthening of the Holy Spirit unto the proper living of our God-given vocations.

Learn to call on the Holy Spirit and see His workings in the Church at every level.

Be conscious of yourself as confirmed, sealed, imbued, branded with the "character".

In time of trial, as an indelibly confirmed Catholic, invoke this powerful sacrament.

"Almighty God, Holy Spirit, I call upon the sacrament of my confirmation.  Help me in this moment of need.  Strengthen me.  Give me the actual graces I must have to do Your will.