The first reading describes the incredible event that took place at Lystra. The people, on witnessing the healing of the crippled man, proclaimed Paul and Barnabas as gods, wanting to offer them sacrifice. Paul and Barnabas tried to explain to the people that they were mortal men and not divine beings. They persuaded the people not to focus on them but on the living God who created all things and revealed Himself through creation.

In the Gospel we hear Jesus, explaining to the disciples the true meaning of his departure to heaven and his consequent return through the Holy Spirit. Jesus knew that Judas and the other disciples were expecting Jesus to immediately return in visible form and in majesty, accompanied by a host of angels. Jesus, instead, helps them to focus on the significance of his return in the Spirit. That is, he and the Father will come to those who love him, and will dwell with them. The emphasis therefore, shifts from Jesus as the way to the Father, to the Father himself, who's very love is the source of their communion with Jesus.

In a world full of distractions and deceptions, it is easy for us to focus on things that are not of God. The readings today remind us that we must not lose sight of the One who is at the centre of our lives - God. In order to do this, we have to constantly turn to the Holy Spirit, the love of the Father and the Son, who dwells within us.