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 Rick's Page: May 2008
 
 

Rev. Rick Hoover

John 14: 16.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever—

John 16: 13.  But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Two musicians were walking past a church when suddenly the bell at the top of the tower broke from its frame and came crashing down on the sidewalk behind them.

“What was that!?” said one musician, quite frightened.

His friend paused and said, “F-sharp.”

This is not the wrong answer to that question but it’s not really helpful, useful or comprehensive either! Unfortunately it is a lot like the answers I produce to problems and crises. My frame of reference is too narrow, fastened to some personal interest of mine. I’m oblivious of the big picture. I am not sensitive to the needs of those around me. I’m blind, walking in the dark.

My chronic inability to see past the nose on my face makes me grateful for the gift promised by our Heavenly Father, given to Jesus’ disciples and to us at Pentecost. I am certain to go wrong and miss what God is doing all around me if I don’t have the Holy Spirit to guide me. The Holy Spirit’s presence is an extremely practical gift, for me and for those who may depend on me.

Among other promises, Jesus told us that this Counselor would be with us forever. (John 14:16) It seems to me this includes even eternity when we are at home in Heaven. Good!

Jesus also said the Holy Spirit “will tell you what is yet to come.” (John 16:13) I am not to worry about tomorrow, but it’s good to know my close companion will never be taken by surprise. The Holy Spirit will reveal to me all I need to know, so that I never need to be unprepared for a day’s surprises.

 Lord, I’m grateful. Your gift, as always, is just right.

 

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Contact Us

Phone:
863.688.4502
Fax:   863.603.4659
Email:   communications@ teamallsaints.org
Mail:   209 South Iowa Avenue
Lakeland, Florida 33801
Address:   202 South Massachusetts Avenue
Lakeland, Florida 33801