The Holy Spirit Arrives, Imbued in God’s Love!
The last few days of Christ’s time on earth looked hectic, as he spent those days attending to a few loose ends. The most important was to show the eleven apostles that he still loved them. He also was deeply concerned that his departure wouldn’t be construed as an abandonment, but more of a handing over of the reins. Jesus wanted his apostles to realize this moment as part of his and his father’s plan.
He also needed his apostles to understand that he still trusted them, despite the recent happenings in Gethsemane. Now, it was all about the future. The apostles needed to embrace this new unique mission wholeheartedly moving forward. It’s what Jesus and his father in heaven imagined.
These last three years with Jesus made the apostles emotionally ready. Walking the highroads and backroads with Jesus while hearing his message, seeing his miracles, watching captivated crowds, and being mesmerized by his presence, made them eager to begin their new journey. Still, Jesus’ absence was upsetting. Doubt and questions arose in them. Could they continue without Jesus? Can they do this without his miracles and his powerful presence? Who will help?
They still talked about Jesus multiplying the loaves and fish, the returning to life of Jairus’ daughter and his friend Lazarus. They wondered if they one day might perform the same glorious deeds for the crowds they would gather.
Addressing them gently, but firmly, Jesus told them an advocate was coming in his place. This advocate would be permanent and, more importantly, was sent with the blessing of his father. This advocate would be called the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would inspire and encourage them.
The Holy Spirit comes as needed. When called, the Holy Spirit springs from within, and anyone can call on the Holy Spirit any time. The Spirit will arise from our hearts bringing God’s love to challenge loneliness, or to light the way to scatter darkness or to enflame our imagination, surfacing needed creativity.
According to God’s plan, Jesus must leave. Jesus loves us too much to abandon us. Therefore, the Holy Spirit appears when beckoned. Remember, God the Father sent Jesus and Jesus sends the Holy Spirit. This is God’s eternal plan to beam his love over all creation, every day that we live, and move, and have our being.
When Jesus departs and returns to the father, Jesus reminds all his followers, that he has used this time on earth glorifying his Father. Jesus manifested the divine presence through his amazing acts and now makes this last request, “Now glorify me Father with the glory I had with you before the world began.”
What Jesus means, is that since he is going back to heaven, it is now up to his disciples and followers on earth to make God visible. They will do this by how they live Jesus’ message in their everyday lives. Lastly, Jesus adds lovingly, “I will pray for you.”
They will know we are Christians by our love.
The Holy Spirit, Martinus Sumbaji, Indonesia
