Pentecost Devotions – June 11

I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. John 14:16, 17

You may have noticed that the Bible refers to God the Father in many ways, Father, Creator, Almighty, etc. Jesus, God the Son, also is referred to by many names: Lamb of God, Good Shepherd, Prince of Peace, etc. You may not have realized that God, the Holy Spirit, is also referred to with a variety of names.  In this verse there are two: Spirit of Truth and Helper.

Helper in Greek is parakletos from which we take our English word, paraclete. A paraclete is someone who is called to your side. It indicates someone who consoles or comforts, who encourages and uplifts; someone who refreshes.  A paraclete is someone who stands at your side and intercedes for you as an advocate in court.

Everyone has dark and difficult days. Hopes are crushed. Loved ones hurt. Faith is shaken. In these times our Helper, Comforter, Spirit of Truth comes to strengthen and encourage us. His holy word in the Bible speaks to your heart of God’s love for you in Christ.  You remember His promise, “I will never leave you or forsake you!” (Hebrews 13:5).  By His help you can cast all your cares on Him.

Pentecost is not only a time to celebrate the work of the Holy Spirit growing the Church through word and sacrament.  It is also a time to thank God for the gift and comfort of the Holy Spirit touching your heart.

Prayer:

Holy Spirit, light divine,
Shine upon this heart of mine;
Chase the shades of night away,
Turn the darkness into day.

Let me see my Savior’s face,
Let me all His beauties trace;
Show those glorious truths to me
Which are only known to Thee.

Holy Spirit, pow’r divine,
Cleanse this guilty heart of mine;
In Thy mercy pity me,
From sin’s bondage set me free.

Holy Spirit, joy divine,
Cheer this saddened heart of mine;
Yield a sacred, settled peace,
Let it grow and still increase.

Holy Spirit, all divine,
Dwell within this heart of mine;
Cast down ev’ry idol throne,
Reign supreme, and reign alone.

Public domain
Lutherans Service Book 496

Fresco in Karlskirche, Vienna

God’s richest blessings in Christ,

Pastor Philip Quardokus