The early Christian communities were filled with the presence of the Spirit. Decisions were guided by the Spirit, and no person was more important than another. Paul and Barnabas were both singled out by the Spirit for a mission. It was not something they sought or planned for themselves. They were completely open to the Spirit. We can experience this Spirit-guided life - we need but ask for the Spirit's guidance and prepare ourselves to be led accordingly. But we should not ask unless we are willing to let go of controlling everything. The Spirit and excessive control are not good partners!

Jesus did not come to judge, nor merely to fill churches. He came as the light, to guide those who stumble in darkness. There is much darkness in our world today - injustice, violence, division, hatred, fear, and inequality. The light of Jesus is compassion, mercy, justice, love, reconciliation, and sharing. When we begin to be illuminated by this light and to walk in his ways, we are already on the road to salvation and we are doing the Lord's work. When we accept the light of Jesus, we have accepted God who sent him. Let us be light to others each day.