An Advocate for You...

Have you ever felt alone? Ever felt like you're not connecting in your life with anyone? Felt fear or anticipation that the future is without hope or promise? Like there is no one there to help or walk with you in your dark and scary places?

This weekend's scripture John 14: 15-21 addresses our need for an advocate, a helper, a protector. Jesus is saying goodbye to his disciples in the farewell discourse and says another advocate will be coming. That they will not be orphaned nor left alone. This advocate, or in greek Paraklete, will be your protector, your advocate, a helper that will walk alongside you and give you strength--in your good times and in your bad times.

This advocate is also the Spirit of truth. The Godhead that brings you the truth about your sin, your life, and your need for a savior. A God that will bear witness to you bringing God's light and love in you and through you.

One of the most amazing images of this advocate imagery in the movies is a clip from The Legend of Bagger Vance. It is a story of a washed up golfer name Junah who had experienced the ravages of war on his soul. He is given a chance to represent his home town in the south and play against the legendary golfers in a tournament. Bagger Vance, becomes his caddy (Will Smith), as well as his advocate, helper, and protector of his soul. The best part of the movie is when Junah hits a ball deep into the woods during the tournament and he is given a chance to face his demons head on. Bagger tells him to lay his "burden down" and come "out of the shadows" of his pain and "play the game." The game that was meant to be played since he came into the world, with his "unique and authentic swing."

Bagger says he is not alone, he is there right beside him and been there all along. And, he is given that confidence to start swinging and find the light once again. And, he does. (Here's the link to that powerful clip: Into the Light: the Legend of Bagger Vance.)

May you know that Spirit of Truth, the Advocate, who walks alongside you and is with you always. In your darkness, in your hurts and pains, when you are feeling alone, God is bringing light into your world with love and grace. And, that truth, will set you free.