Going, Going, Gone
Opening Prayer
Lord, You know what is in my heart and You know about all my struggles. Thank You for understanding me.
Read John 16:5-15
[5] but now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ [6] Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. [7] But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. [8] When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: [9] about sin, because people do not believe in me; [10] about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; [11] and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned. [12] “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. [13] But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. [14] He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. [15] 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.” Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
What would you say in a farewell speech to your family and friends?At some point, most people give a farewell speech. It may be humorous or sorrowful, thankful or vindictive, factual or idealistic. Yet, irrespective of content or style, it can make a huge impact. When Jesus says farewell to his closest friends he seems very concerned about how they will fare when he is gone. Aware of their grief, he wants to strengthen them (6). Repetition is a way of ensuring that a message is received, and so repeatedly Jesus tells them he is going back to the One who sent him, urging them to anticipate the arrival of the Holy Spirit (7,9). I remember severely editing a farewell speech of my own on the basis that less is more, careful to include only the important points. Jesus, too, had to edit himself. On the verge of completing his earthly mission, he had so much to impart, yet he was acutely aware his disciples could not take everything in (12). Jesus does, however, include a gem of an instruction that will prove invaluable and unforgettable: the Spirit of truth will be the justice bearer, and not the ways of the world (8-11).
Apply
Bring to mind specific examples in your life when God has shown care for you. Thank God for those times.
Closing prayer
Lord God, You are the source of all true wisdom. You help me maintain my balance and give me wise counsel. I praise You.
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