Another Companion Forever

In John 14:8, Philip, one of Jesus' disciples, basically asked him to show us the Father, or show us that you are God. Jesus responds that he is in God and God is in him, they are one in the same. Further on in John 14:14-16, we see that Jesus told his disciples "When you ask me for anything in my name, I will do it.If you love me, you will keep my commandments. I will ask the Father, and he will send another Companion, who will be with you forever."

Jesus' answer to Philip and his disciples are still good for us today. So, does it mean that Jesus is like a genie who will grant us every wish that we ask for as long as we ask in the right way? And, if we obey God and do God's commandments, what does that companion that Jesus sent to be with us forever do for us?

As we prepare to celebrate Pentecost Sunday, the remembrance of the entry of God's Holy Spirit into the world, we may be filled with our own questions about what this Sunday celebrates and how this season's focus on the Companion, also known as the Holy Spirit, impacts on us today.

Trying to live our life in a way that reflects God's love during a time of increasing dissension, unrest, and violence, we may be feeling sad or even depressed in the face of these harsh realities. But, we are not alone. We have God's love and support enriching us - even when it seems like God's presence seems further away and God's power feels less effective, and we might be confused about how God is dealing with these problems.

Pentecost Sunday is important to celebrate in the light of all that is going on because God is providing the loving assistance and divine companionship that we desire but have overlooked because we were distracted by the events surrounding us just like the disciples were saddened and depressed in days and months after the death and resurrection of Jesus. Look again at the loving message from Jesus and be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit!