Not Alone
David Coxton (Michigan, USA)




TODAY'S READING
John 16:1-7


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
With the Spirit as my guide, I can go forward in confidence.


PRAYER FOCUS
Welders




Jesus said, “The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.” - John 14:26 (NIV)



My father was my first welding instructor. He taught me the basics, which became the foundation for my continued improvement. Then I went to welding school and worked with more experienced welders to learn my trade. Over the years, I gained skill and experience as I worked on more advanced welding projects. However, even as I improved, there were times when I would get stuck on a welding problem. I could always call my father, and he would give me advice on how to solve it.

Then my father passed away, and a couple of weeks after the funeral, I got stuck on another welding problem. As usual, I thought, I’ll call my father. I was halfway to the telephone before I realized that I couldn’t do that anymore. I suddenly felt very alone. I went back to the project, realizing I was now on my own and had to use my own skills to solve the problem.

I think this is how the disciples must have felt when Jesus said he had to leave them. John’s Gospel says they were “filled with grief.” They felt they would never again have a relationship with him or learn from him. However, Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to be in relationship with us and guide us. We are not alone. We have the Spirit guiding us always.


TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to comfort us and guide us on life’s journey. Amen.