“I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you” (Jo 14:18).
With Jesus’ imminent crucifixion and ascension, the disciples faced the prospect of severe despair, helplessness and a sense of abandonment after enjoying three years of awesome mentorship, spiritual guidance and practical support from the first Paraclete. That’s why our Lord’s promise not to leave the apostles fatherless or helpless (orphanous in Greek) is so precious. His promise to come to them, in the person of the Holy Spirit, an identical Paraclete (Helper), was quite heartening.
As we wrap up this year, and anticipate the next, let us appropriate this precious word. Let us rest assured that we are not bereft of divine, fatherly support through the abiding presence of the Paraclete (Holy Spirit) with and within us as we face new challenges and opportunities ahead. Let us grasp, decree and declare this promise.
Pastor Josh