Jesus said this about Nathanael: “Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is no deceit.” (John 1:47) – for me that is a WOW moment every time I read that sentence.

I am quite sure it was no accident that Jesus chose men who were less than perfect. Look at each apostle’s character. I am sure we can list the flaws in each apostle and see them in ourselves. Each apostle overcame those flaws. And we are called to strive for the same. Perhaps in time attain the same character as Nathaniel – substitute Christian for Israelite. ?????

Notice there is an ending in the readings of Acts and John’s Gospel. These are leading us to a new beginning. We are on the Eve of Pentecost. Just like Christmas Eve and the Easter Vigil, we should have a feeling of anticipation of gifts (but ones we have already been given at Baptism). Here is a review:

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, these gifts “complete and perfect the virtues of those who receive them.”[19]

Wisdom is considered the first and the greatest of the gifts. It acts upon both the intellect and the will.
Understanding helps one relate all truths to one’s supernatural purpose; it further illuminates one’s understanding of Sacred Scripture; and it assists us to understand the significance of religious ritual. This all gives us a profound appreciation for God’s providence.[21]
Counsel functions as a sort of supernatural intuition, to enable a person to judge promptly and rightly, especially in difficult situations. (…) the gift of counsel operates under the guidance of the Holy Spirit to illuminate the will of God.[22]
Fortitude is often identified with courage, (…)
Knowledge: The gift of knowledge allows one, as far as is humanly possible, to see things from God’s perspective. It “allows us to perceive the greatness of God and his love for his creatures” through creation.[24]
Piety accords with reverence. A person with reverence recognizes his total reliance on God and comes before God with humility, trust, and love.”[26] (…)
Fear of the Lord is akin to wonder (or awe). With the gift of fear of the Lord, one is made aware of the glory and majesty of God. (…) Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. It is the perfection of the theological virtue of hope.

How awesome are those gifts (and they come with fruits! Hmmm!)
Peace Be with You
????????????
Blessings
………………………………………………………………………
Thou hast given me so much. Give me one more thing – A Grateful Heart. – George Herbert