THE SPIRIT
“God does not ration his gift of
the spirit” (Jn 3:34)
The artists of the world have, unfortunately, framed our
image of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told the
disciples to await the descent of the Paraclete, which translates to advocate, or intercessor. Sadly, some people think the word is
parakeet. The images of a Dove with rays
coming from its wings is a popular one, and might actually contribute to the
error, but the almighty power of the Spirit is diminished by such a
description.
In the book, The Shack,
by Paul Young, the spirit is called Sarayu (wind). Sarayu captures
perfectly the quality of free movement, constant activity and omnipresence of
the Spirit of God. This
characterization has been described as the best depiction of the Spirit ever
written. I can’t disagree.
God does not ration his gift of the spirit.
The spirit of God is at work throughout the world every
second of every day, unrestrained and undeterred. The
sudden urges to help someone, the true spirit of forgiveness that arises in a
grudge-filled heart, the continuing hope despite circumstances that people feel,
are all the work of the Spirit. Things
we describe as miracles, such as a change of heart or a sudden true conversion,
are the Spirit working within our spirits.
I don’t write these articles, the Spirit does. I do the typing; the Spirit has the ideas.
When I finish one, I go away from it and wait. A change of word here, a phrase
there pop into my head and I obey.
Believe me, there was a time in my life, if anyone had said this to me,
I would have thought they were nuts. I
know better now.
The Spirit is your best friend. Unlike human friends, the Spirit will never
abandon you to your own devices.
Whatever you face, call on the Spirit and wait. That is the secret. Wait, trust, believe and the road will smooth
out before you. It takes practice, but
it is worth it and it brings the peace promised by Jesus.
God does not ration his gift of the spirit.
Blessings on you all,
Carol Lemelin, OPA
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