Holy Spirit Mondays: Rejection!

Each Monday, I send a short email to help you deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit. It will include a quote, a brief reflection, and a short prayer asking for the intercession of the Spirit.

Read:

"Behold now, what is so good or so pleasant as for brethren to dwell together? For in this the Lord has promised life everlasting" (Matins, 10 August 2025).

Ponder:

Why do we turn on each other so easily? Is it self interest? Is it miscommunication? Is it just sin plain and simple? The inner desire to offend and be offended ... to go on the offensive or resort to the defensive ... often comes from a deeper sense of vulnerability.

It is easy to imagine how we become susceptible to negative actions and reactions when life's battles overwhelm us. But we may also be surprised when our own behavior stems from the insecurities that can arise from hearing the will of God and not knowing how to live it. It can also come up when we try to live the will of God and it doesn't quite fit into people's expectations or assumptions. This is how mutual rejection can occur.

The good news is that we can heal, improve communication, grow in love, and offer mercy to each other through the Holy Spirit.

Pray:

"Most Holy Spirit, save me from myself and sanctify me."

A Coptic Orthodox Icon of Pentecost