The Perfect Leaving Gift
Opening Prayer
Take a few moments to remember the times when God answered your prayers. Then, thank him for them.
Read John 14:15-27
[15] “If you love me, keep my commands. [16] And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever- [17] the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. [18] I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. [19] Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. [20] On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you. [21] Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” [22] Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, “But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?” [23] Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. [24] Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. [25] “All this I have spoken while still with you. [26] 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. [27] 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. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What does Jesus say is the test of love for him?It took several hours to edit the vast amount of video footage of my trip to India. It felt important to remember everything I had seen and learned from this amazing experience. As Jesus was speaking to the disciples, he also emphasized the importance of remembering. After sharing a meal together and washing their feet, Jesus predicted future events that would soon shape history. He promised an incredible gift that would be given in his absence and described this gift as friend, counselor and teacher, sent by his Father to remind them of everything he had said (26). Aware of imminent turmoil, with the disciples fearful about being left alone, Jesus promised not to leave them stranded like orphans–this “Spirit of Truth” or “Holy Spirit” would be a dynamic reminder and revealer, sent to all those who love God. Undoubtedly, the disciples had questions and in many respects it was all rather mysterious, but Jesus exhorts them to be peaceful and untroubled (27). Whenever I watch my India video, I am changed by the memory. But that pales into insignificance compared with the agent of change Jesus is describing. The disciples were about to be sent the perfect parting gift.
Apply
Is there anything that is causing you distress or anxiety? Name it and receive the peace that Jesus offers you.
Closing prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, and for the teaching and peace which Your Spirit gives.
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