Abide With Me

This was a one-of-a-kind day. Of course, the disciples had interacted with Jesus many times before, but the atmosphere was different that day. As he prepared the disciples for his departure, Jesus delivered a sober message. He attempted, piece by piece, to put things into perspective. He was aware that his time with them was coming to an end, but the disciples were not. They bombarded him with questions in the preceding passages, eager to learn where he was going and whether they could accompany him. It had to have been difficult for them.

Jesus called them. He saw past their flaws and embraced them, taught them, dined with them, and they witnessed his miracles. He would no longer be present, and it was difficult to reconcile how they would live without him.

They were unable to keep their anxious thoughts from Jesus. In their humanity, they wished for Jesus to remain with them. Jesus was aware of their many questions, and he had the answers. His compassionate nature reached out to them and lovingly offered a solution. In their desperation, he eagerly offered them what they needed to get through the difficult days ahead—the Holy Spirit.

God's constant presence among and within them was the Holy Spirit. It made no sense to them at the time due to their limited understanding. "Don't be troubled, don't be afraid," Jesus told them, and he reminds us even now of this. His Holy Spirit is present with us and available to all who believe in Christ Jesus. Our friend, the Holy Spirit, brings us peace. We do not have to give up hope because we have assurance that Jesus will return as he has promised.

Who do you turn to when you're worried, discouraged, or your heart is troubled? Look to me, Jesus says, and listen to my Spirit.

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the gift of your Holy Spirit. Today, I choose to exchange my worries for your peace. Allow my mind and heart to be at ease knowing that you are in control of everything and that you are with me. Amen.

Throughout the Day: Allow Matt Redman's song "Abide With Me" to minister to you as you meditate on this passage of Scripture: