When you're in the darkness of the tomb rather than in the light of the risen Son, you need to see the light. This guiding light often comes in the form of a prophecy or a revelation. For example, Peter and John were in a terrible situation. They had been arrested and spent the night in jail (Acts 4:3). A persecution was beginning to rage that would ultimately result in the brutal murder-martyrdom of several believers. How was the early Church to come out of the darkness of fear and violence?

They gathered together for prayer, and the Lord gave them a prophecy to reassure them (Acts 4:25-26; Ps 2). Then they were given a specific intercessory prayer: "Grant to Your servants, even as they speak Your words, complete assurance by stretching forth Your hand in cures and signs and wonders to be worked in the name of Jesus, Your holy Servant" (Acts 4:29-30). They had obviously received divine enlightenment, for "the place where they were gathered shook as they prayed. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak God's word with confidence" (Acts 4:31).

When nothing's going right, when darkness is overshadowing the light, seek the light of prophecy and revelation. Prophecy will encourage and guide you. A revelation will focus your prayer on a specific intention. The Spirit will move, the place shake, and the word will be proclaimed with "complete assurance" (Acts 4:29).

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Edward J. Gratsch, October 4, 1999

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 12, 1999