To the Spirit all creatures turn in their need for sanctification; all living things seek him according to their ability. His breath empowers each to achieve its own natural end.
The Spirit is the source of holiness, a spiritual light, and he offers
his own light to every mind to help it in its search for truth. By nature
the Spirit is beyond the reach of our mind, but we can know him by his
goodness. The power of the Spirit fills the whole universe, but he gives
himself only to those who are worthy, acting in each according to the measure
of his faith.
Simple in himself, the Spirit is manifold in his mighty works. The
whole of his being is present to each individual; the whole of his being
is present everywhere. Though shared in by many, he remains unchanged;
his self-giving is no los's to himself. Like the sunshine, which permeates
all the atmosphere, spreading over land and sea, and yet is enjoyed by
each person as though it were for him alone, so the Spirit pours forth
his grace in full measure, sufficient for all, and yet is present as though
exclusively to everyone who can receive him. To all creatures that share
in him he gives a delight limited only by their own nature, not by his
ability to give.
The Spirit raises our hearts to heaven, guides the steps of the weak,
and brings to perfection those who are making progress. He enlightens those
who have been cleansed from every stain of sin and makes them spiritual
by communion with himself.
As clear, transparent substances become very bright when sunlight falls
on them and shine with a new radiance, so also souls in whom the Spirit
dwells, and who are enlightened by the Spirit, become spiritual themselves
and a source of grace for others.
From the Spirit comes foreknowledge of the future, under- standing
of the mysteries of faith, insight into the hidden mean- ing of Scripture,
and other special gifts. Through the Spirit we become citizens of heaven,
we are admitted to the company of the angels, we enter into eternal happiness
and abide in God. Through the Spirit we acquire a likeness to God; indeed,
we attain what is beyond our most sublime aspirations-we become God.