Our Gospel this week is John 16:7-15, taken today from the New American Standard Version (NASB).
But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me; and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me; and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged. “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.
Understanding the Holy Spirit is a hard thing for the disciples. They are sad knowing that Jesus will have to leave them according to God’s plan and confused about how the Holy Spirit will work in their lives. Although we didn’t know Jesus as a human being, we may have some of the same concerns.
He tells us again this is what God intended, and that we have more spiritual learning and growing to do on our own. We won’t be alone though, the Holy Spirit will be with us to remind us of His teaching, leading us on the path Jesus has shown us. Now we are called to continue His work, sharing God’s love with the world.
We may think that doing what Jesus did is beyond our capability but God ensures we have the gifts we need. He doesn’t send us out to fail! Know the presence of the Holy Spirit goes with you in all you do, giving you strength and encouragement.
Loving Lord, we are amazed that You want us to continue Your work and be part of the plan of salvation. Help us to go boldly in the world to tell everyone the Good News. Amen.