Grow in humility and openness of heart

May 20, Saturday of the 6th Week of Easter
Daily Readings: Acts 18:23-28; Gospel:  John 16:23-28

How do you respond to unsolicited feedback? Today's first reading gives clues on how to make the best of a potentially awkward situation. Apollos could have been offended when Priscilla and Aquila, two older and wiser believers, took him aside and showed him where his understanding of the gospel was lacking (Acts 18:28). But Scripture tells us that he delivered their words with humility and openness of heart. It also describes how Apollos went on to "vigorously" preach the good news afterward.

What a lesson for us!

We can understand some things perfectly before we share our faith. Apollos preached the gospel as he understood it "with ardent spirit," and it seems to have had some effect (Acts 18:25). Living for perfection can put us under tremendous pressure and disappointment. Our mistakes and shortcomings don't define us or keep us from God's love, and they certainly don't disqualify us from sharing the gospel.

However, we should also be ready to embrace opportunities to change and grow when they present themselves. We can ask the Lord to help us be open to correction and even invite him to show us where we need some redirection.

Finally, we can imitate Apollos by staying optimistic when someone offers us advice or tells us how to improve. The person speaking to us sincerely tries to help us. Instead of feeling offended or becoming defensive, we can respond graciously and take their advice to prayer. Who knows? It could change our lives!"

It's natural to want to shy away from receiving feedback. But as we learn to accept our imperfections and embrace spiritual growth, we can expect the Holy Spirit to continue to change us. And that will help change the lives of everyone around us!

"Father, help me to grow in humility and openness of heart.