It must have been quite something knocking around with Jesus.
The many acts He did; the teachings He shared; His manner of life; His relationships both good and bad. Imagine hanging around Him for the best part of three years at close quarters taking in all that He was doing and believing that He is the promised Messiah. Yet for all that belief there are legitimate doubts you have – Where did He come from? What does He mean He’s leaving? Why is He clashing with the religious leaders? Secretly even asking that key question – who is He?
It’s a lot to take on. It’s a lot to absorb. It would be easy to be overwhelmed by some of it, especially the weird bits like eating His flesh and drinking His blood. What does it all mean? What’s it all about?
As someone reading the words about adventures that took place thousands of years ago, I can still wonder what it’s all about. The more I get into faith in Jesus and following His commands, the clearer I am that there is no way I could get it without significant help.
He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you. (John 16:14, 15)
In this intimate encounter with His dearest disciples, Jesus outlines clearly to them great news that ensures ongoing contact with Him. It would be great news if their heart were not burdened and overwhelmed with the talk of Him leaving.
The role of the Holy Spirit in our lives is so critical. Reading the assurances of Jesus about what the Holy Spirit will do and essentially how He will point to the Son who shares what’s given by the Father strengthens the divine family connection. It’s one thing to read it, it is another thing completely to experience the truth of it and so be assured that even in the life of trouble, we entrust our lives to the One who has overcome the world.
Thank God there is always someone there to remind us.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 