Excerpt from John 14:15-21

"I will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever… I will not leave you orphaned."

Reflection by Martin B. Copenhaver

According to John, after Jesus concludes his public ministry, he spends a considerable amount of time with his disciples preparing them for what lies ahead. As Jesus speaks of his death and resurrection, his disciples have a multitude of questions. They sound like the questions of children just before their parents go out the door: Where are you going? Do you have to go? Can't we go with you? When will you be back? Who will stay with us while you are away? They are plaintive questions, pressing and immediate.

Jesus responds that God "will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever . . .  I will not leave you orphaned" (John 14:15, 18). He is promising them the presence of the Holy Spirit. The word translated "Advocate" (sometimes translated, "Counselor," or "Comforter") means, literally, "someone who is called to one's side." The Holy Spirit is the one who stands by the disciples even after Jesus departs. And the Spirit is a constant and comforting presence for all those who follow Jesus, an advocate in times of trial, a counselor in perplexity.

The presence of the Holy Spirit, so wonderfully manifest in Jesus, continues to stand by and work through those who continue to follow him after his death and resurrection. Through the gift of the Holy Spirit we have Jesus' continued presence at our side always.

Prayer

Wonderful Counselor, beloved Comforter, I thank you that, even as I call you to my side today, you are already there, granting me the continued presence of Jesus Christ. Amen.

About the Author Martin B. Copenhaver is Senior Pastor, Wellesley Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Wellesley, Massachusetts. He is the author, with Lillian Daniel, of This Odd and Wondrous Calling: the Public and Private Lives of Two Ministers.

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