- Lane of Roses
The One Who Walks Alongside
Written by: Harriet Chunu
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“But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you.”
– John 16:7 NLT
Imagine walking with your best friend for years. They watched you grow, told you tales, and put you in your place in the most loving way possible. You admired them for their character and were accustomed to their presence. Until one day, they explained that they had to move.
So much heartache and loss comes from losing a friend who you did life with. A friend who taught you how to be bold and not follow the status quo. As much as you know it is what is best, there is no denying the hurt of not having them around anymore.
When Jesus told His disciples that he needed to go, I am sure they looked at each other confused. Sorrow filled their hearts because they knew they had a good thing: following Jesus whilst he healed, stepped out from the ordinary, and spoke of the promises God has for us. So, why then would Jesus leave when the disciples still needed Him? Who would not benefit from His physical presence? Could something else really be any better?
You see, Jesus knew that, when a friend leaves us, we are left with an empty space. A longing and sense of dependency that only the Holy Spirit could fill. One that could be omnipotent (all-powerful), omnipresent (present everywhere) and omniscient (all-knowing) - “guiding us to all truth” (John 16:12) so that we might understand. Interceding in prayer with “groanings that cannot be expressed in words” (Romans 8:26). Oh, how much solace it brings, to know that Jesus thought of us. He knew that we would need a Friend to confirm God’s message, help us remember what Jesus had taught, and make justice, the righteousness of God available to everyone.
The Holy Spirit, also known as Paraclete in Greek, means “the one who walks alongside, especially during times of need,” and other meanings include comforter or helper. How amazing is it to know that we have this ongoing support to teach us about God’s Word and convict us in the different areas of our lives?
Reflection
1. In your week and as you go about your day, do you acknowledge the Holy Spirit? In what ways can you do so today?
2. For a moment, think about the advantages that come from having the Holy Spirit living inside each of us, and lean into the Holy Spirit’s constant presence in your daily life.
Prayer
Father, thank You for sending us the Holy Spirit to understand Your heart and the truth You have always known from before time. Thank You for guiding and walking alongside us as we seek to live for You and share Your grace with the world. And in moments where we find ourselves in sticky situations and faced with conviction, may we lean into the comfort of the Holy Spirit, who walks with us as a loving friend. In Jesus Name, Amen
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