August 11

“I’m telling you these things while I’m still living with you. The Friend, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send at my request, will make everything plain to you. He will remind you of all the things I have told you. I’m leaving you well and whole. That’s my parting gift to you. Peace. I don’t leave you the way you’re used to being left—feeling abandoned, bereft. So don’t be upset. Don’t be distraught.” John 14:25-27 (MSG)

There are all kinds of leavings that take place in life—we may be the one who walks, drives, or runs away from a situation too painful to bear—or be called to say those difficult good-byes, even when we know the parting is right—a new job, a new city, a chance at a brand new life.

Then there are the times we are the ones left behind—a friend moves on, a lover leaves, taking pieces of your heart with them, leaving the brokenness behind.  It happens to all of us, and it hurts. 

And yet, we have this comfort, greater than all of our cares—if the whole world should leave us, however they have to or will—our Precious Holy Spirit, Comforter and Friend is with us still!  Even Jesus had to leave those He walked with and so loved to return to His Father in heaven, all for our greater good.  But He did not leave them then, or us now, alone.  Instead, He sent instead the Helper, the One Who would walk with us always, leading and guiding us every step of the way.

Oh dearest one, if your heart is hurting today, in the leaving or the being left, don’t despair.  Whatever gap is there the Holy Spirit will fill it; whatever longing over the loss, He will work it all around for your greater good, as only He can do.  Don’t be upset, dearly loved one, for just as Jesus promised, through His life in you, He has made you well and whole! Holy Spirit is with you always, teaching, equipping, healing, helping, empowering, and making it so!