But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. (John 16:13 NAS95)
Unease portrays the emotions of the disciples as they listen. During this evening, their Friend has spoken of His death and departure, creating a sense of confusion and unbelief, but they still listen. How do they register the things Jesus has mentioned about His own death and the route to it through the betrayal of one of them? In the midst of the chaos and confusion overcoming their hearts, Jesus speaks of One coming in His stead. Jesus has two things in mind, calming the overpowering emotions they are experiencing and assuring them the same intimacy they’ve had with Him will continue, even after He departs. Through the conversation, Jesus wants the disciples to know He’s not abandoning them, He’s becoming more available to them.
Jesus cares deeply for His friends. They’ve seen Him, heard Him, watched the truth of His words lived out in His life — amazing integrity and love beyond description. The One who’s led Him, will now lead and guide His friends. Intimacy with Him will deepen as it will for all who follow Jesus. The Spirit, the Comforter, will continue the conversation heart to heart. Jesus thus speaks because He’s lived immersed in the love of His Father His whole life through the Spirit. He now wants His friends, the disciples, to abide, listen and converse with Him in the same way He has with His Father. The Spirit will speak in Jesus’ familiar tone concerning the same things. He will be with them because the Spirit’s words are His. Peace will replace the unease of their hearts as the Spirit comforts, guides and leads them — and us. Prayer helps us grow in the awareness of His presence and holds the key to notice Him.
For Reflection:
“As for me, You uphold me in my integrity, and You set me in Your presence forever.” (Psalms 41:12 NAS95)
- What prompts you to pray or spontaneously enter a conversation with God?
- How often do you sense or get a glimpse of God’s presence with you? Does your heart discern well and frequently His overtures to you?
