Christians wish and pray that the Holy Spirit always accompanies them. However, we do not have a simple method to tell his presence quickly. When we experience mysterious blessings, we may contribute them to the work of the Holy Spirit. But we cannot prove it. Jesus said, “The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

Nevertheless, there is one occasion we can be sure that the Holy Spirit is present and works on earth. Jesus first prefigured it when he multiplied the bread and fish to feed the thousands of people. Also, he demonstrated it by changing water into wine. Later, when he instituted the Eucharist, he finally revealed the work of the Holy Spirit by giving his body and blood in the forms of bread and wine. When a priest offers a Mass, the Holy Spirit is present and consecrates and transubstantiates bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ. We might not be so sure of the presence of the Holy Spirit everywhere else, but in the Eucharist, we are guaranteed to be with the Holy Spirit and receive the work of the Holy Spirit. The invocation of the Holy Spirit (Epiclesis) is a necessary part of the Eucharistic prayers. It is not a wish of the priest or a spiritual blessing. Through the invocation, the Holy Spirit becomes present and changes the Eucharistic elements.

It is a fundamental truth of faith. However, Catholics often forget or ignore it. They like to be with Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Then, the Mass is the best and surest way to be with Jesus and the Holy Spirit. It is why many Catholics come to Communion even under the pandemic.

The disciples in today’s gospel find themselves in trouble. They are in the rough sea with a strong wind and high waves. Then, Jesus appears to them. And, immediately, they reach the land which they were going.

When you find yourself in trouble, come and receive Christ with the Holy Spirit at Communion. There is no better way because Christ himself with his Spirit comes to you in body and soul. And he will save us from our troubles because being with Christ is salvation.