
Walking by the Sea
If I were Jesus’ therapist, there is one moment in particular that I’d love to process Read More
Rhoda Manzo (Gombe State, Nigeria) | Read John 14:8-17
The disciples of Jesus are distressed and confused in the upper room as they listen to Jesus trying to prepare them for his coming death and departure. “Do not let your heart be troubled; I will not leave you orphaned,” Jesus assures them (John 14:1, 18). Then he promises that...
Triune God, thank you for providing for me an advocate who is always there to guide me. May I be open to the Spirit’s nudges, following where she leads. Amen.
The passages for this week talk about the coming of the promised Holy Spirit. In John’s Gospel, Jesus promises to send the Advocate, the one who will teach the disciples and help them remain connected to Christ. The psalmist praises God for how creation is renewed through the Spirit. Paul reminds readers that those led by God’s Spirit are God’s children. In Acts, the disciples wait for the promised power that will help them become effective witnesses. They receive that promise fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, turning them from people of fear to people of fire. Through our exploration of the Holy Spirit, we learn this Helper is not just an idea or a reminder but a manifestation of God’s presence who will guide us in truth, advocate for us, and give us peace.
• Read Acts 2:1-21. Why was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost important for the church?
• Read Psalm 104:24-34, 35b. When you look at the natural world around you, what does it tell you about God?
• Read Romans 8:14-17. What assurance does the Holy Spirit give us?
• Read John 14:8-17, 25-27. How often do you seek the help of the Holy Spirit?
Respond by posting a prayer.