John 14:23-29 (NRSV)
Read John 14:23-29 on biblegateway.com
Verse 23Jesus answered him, "Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Verse 24Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me.
Verse 25"I have said these things to you while I am still with you. Verse 26But 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. Verse 27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.
Verse 28You heard me say to you, 'I am going away, and I am coming to you.' If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. Verse 29And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe.
Devotion
Everyone needs an advocate. Those who have navigated the health care system know just how important an advocate can be. Sometimes we don’t know the right questions to ask; sometimes we don’t know the direction to go; sometimes we just need to talk and vent and get it all out there. But we all know it can be hard to ask for help. Not wanting to burden anyone or ask silly questions or seem unprepared. Sometimes we all need an advocate.
It is kind of like our God, who in making this amazing world understood the importance of doing life in relationship rather than in isolation. We all need an advocate from God to help get us through the complexities and questions that will come; we all need someone else to walk with us through the joys and challenges of life lived. Both are of God. Advocates are not to be feared; we all need a little help navigating the complexities of today.
Prayer
God our guide, you have sent people into our lives who care. Help us receive their care. Amen.
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