Thursday, May 25

THURSDAY, MAY 25, 2017

"All this I have spoken while still with you.  But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:25-27)

Have you ever wondered what the future would hold?  Of course you have!

Jesus's disciples found themselves in a similar moment.  Facing a great change, with the departure of their Leader and Lord, they may have logically felt that pit of anxiety rising in their stomachs, as they considered what the future might hold.  How would they maintain their courage in a world that Jesus had already declared to be against them?  If Jesus were vulnerable to attack, how about them?  How would they maintain their strength?  Or even stick together?

Jesus comforts them through these last moments before His crucifixion with several mentions of the Spirit's imminent coming.  In two instances, Jesus highlighted that the Holy Spirit would guide the disciples into all truth and make clear what Jesus had taught.  He would also speak through the disciples in difficulty situations, including in front of authorities.

In short, the Spirit's coming would ensure that the peace of Christ might be with His disciples even after His departure.  Through His shed blood, Jesus provided the means for us to come into a lasting relationship with God.  The Holy Spirit, present at Creation and Sustainer, would breathe life into the disciples through bringing truth and bearing fruit unto righteousness.

Praise be to God for giving the Spirit for those who follow the Son.  May He bring us into all truth and make us fully alive!

Lord God, thank You for offering us salvation through the sacrifice of Your Son.  Draw us closer to you through understanding truth and receiving the peace of the Holy Spirit.  Give us a deeper love for You and for people.  Make us disciples, strengthened with courage to bless others and live for Your glory.  In Jesus's Name, amen.