Eastertide May 23, 2015

Scripture Reading: John 15:26-27 ‘When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father, he will testify on my behalf. You also are to testify because you have been with me from the beginning.

Advocate* is the English translation of the Greek paraklétos** that was the word used to describe an attorney at the time the book of John was written. Merriam-Webster identifies three definitions and one example:

1. one that pleads the cause of another : defender

2. one that argues for, defends, maintains, or recommends a cause or proposal

3. one who supports or promotes the interests of another: someone giving evidence that stands up in court.

To whom is this Advocate speaking the truth in our scripture today? It would seem that this Spirit of truth is sent to each of us to help us discern our way in the manner of Jesus Christ. Yet, the word is always oriented to the other and the coming of the Spirit is to, not only help us discern what is right and just, but to also help us to share the truth with others.

I am reminded of Pilate’s question at Jesus’ trial: What is truth? (John 18:38) We live in a time when truth is not cheap, but seems to be decided by the highest bidder as the media competes for our attention in any way they can to succeed and make money. Beyond that Christians seem to have differing spirits whispering in our ears as we speak opposing truths in the name of Jesus. What is truth indeed?

In Ephesians 4:4-6 Paul writes, There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all. Perhaps we need to work a little harder at the oneness Jesus called us to live by opening ourselves to the leading of the Advocate and perceiving the truth together.

Prayer: Lord, as we celebrate our diversity help us to claim our oneness in you. Amen.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of American. Used by permission. All rights reserved.