Saint Bernardine of Siena, Priest (Optional Memorial)

He will . . . remind you of all that I told you. (John 14:26)

Have you ever visited a national monument or museum? These structures and exhibits are there for a reason: to remind us. They might commemorate the work of great inventors or heroic leaders, the service of veterans, or historic movements. But more than that, they embody a country’s character, dreams, and aspirations.

Scripture tells us that Israel built monuments too. When the people crossed the Jordan and entered the Promised Land, God told them to set up twelve memorial stones (Joshua 4). He knew that they would need a reminder of the miracles that brought them out of Egypt and through the wilderness into safety.

We do something similar. Statues, rosaries, mosaics, and stained glass windows in our churches and cathedrals are physical reminders of God’s work in our spiritual history. They remind us of God’s faithfulness, and they help us to stay faithful. As baptized Christians, though, we have something even more powerful than physical monuments. We have the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promised would be our own personal reminder of all that he had said and done.

God knows that when life gets tough, we might need a reminder of his great love. Or we might make a big mistake and need the reassurance of his forgiveness, not just once, but many times. In moments like these, the Holy Spirit is there to comfort us and redirect us.

How does he do this? Well, his reminders don’t usually come as a thundering voice in the heavens. More often, they come in very quiet and simple ways—through a comforting Scripture passage that you hear at Mass, through a favorite hymn, or through a hug from a friend that assures you of how much Jesus cares for you. Any time you feel a nudge to remember what God has done in your life, it is probably the Spirit offering you his grace, power, and comfort.

Today let’s thank the Holy Spirit for being our faithful reminder. Let’s thank him that his reminders are more than thoughts that come to mind. They also carry fresh grace to help us move forward. We can depend on God’s love and mercy, no matter what.

“Holy Spirit, be my reminder. Help me to remember all that Jesus has done for me.”

Acts 14:5-18
Psalm 115:1-4, 15-16