Pause

When there are so many challenges made, so many insistent declarations that call into question what you see, what you hear, what you think, and yes, what you know, it is hard to be certain sometimes about anything.

While doubt is not unwelcome for the honest believer who is trying to understand, it is good to hear something that reminds the faithful follower about why their journey of faith was begun in the first place.

Listen now for echoes of truth, so that you may believe still.

Listen

"I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you."

John 14:25-26

Think

Have you ever had an advocate? The word “advocate” in today’s passage was originally a legal term, what we would call an attorney today. Then and now, these advocates represent their clients, speaking and acting on their behalf to navigate complex systems and situations. The many overlapping responsibilities of an advocate are probably why different Bible translations call the Holy Spirit a Comforter, Helper, and Counselor.

So have you had an advocate? Has a parent, teacher, pastor, coach, or counselor taken a stand to support you in a tough situation or given you guidance with a complex decision? Is there a person who will back you unconditionally, celebrating what makes you special and pointing out ways to grow? I pray that you have such an advocate in your community, but even more, I pray that you know the Advocate, the Spirit of God. Simply recalling all that Jesus taught is no small task, much less obeying. Thanks be to God for the faithful Advocate who reminds us and reshapes us!

Joshua Hays

Pray

Thank you, God, for the advocates in my life who accept, comfort, and believe in me. Thank you that the greatest Advocate believes in me, and help me to believe in return. Amen.

Go

It is in the knowing
And in the unknowing
That the faithful find their way through.

It is in trust despite distrust,
Harmony despite discord,
And belief despite deceit
That Love finds its ultimate victory,

Unwilling and finally unable
To let go the beloved.