Devotion 

The Spirit of Truth

Frances Taylor 

Jesus knew the apostles wouldn't be able to understand everything he had told them immediately. It would take time and would need the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. It is no easier to distinguish truth today than for the apostles. We are also still coming to a better understanding of the Scriptures as they are a living Word of God, meant for the times in which they were written as well as today. We are still in need of the guidance of the Spirit to understand what God wants us to learn from him today and how the Scriptures apply to our decisions. We are always in the process of learning more and more about Jesus and his teachings. Just as with the apostles, we cannot grasp it all at once. We need to take advantage of all opportunities to grow in our faith. Each time we reread the gospels we learn something new, we see things different ways depending on what is going on in our lives. Sometimes we need consolation, sometimes motivation to act more generously, or to ask forgiveness for unchristian behavior. I'm always surprised when I read a passage that I have probably read or heard many times before, and really see it for the first time. Each time, the Spirit draws me to new insights. May the Spirit of truth continue to guide us.

Prayer 

Thank you, Lord, for sending your Spirit to the apostles and to us. May we continue to pray for the wisdom and knowledge the Spirit brings to us. Amen.