Quoting Billy Graham, “I have good news! God knows you and takes active concern in your life. God thinks you are so bright and special that Christ was sent to die for you.”

Reading today in John 14:22-31, Judas (not Judas Iscariot) ask the question, “Why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?” Jesus answers that question by explaining that he will show himself only to those who love him. The difference between someone who loves Jesus and someone who does not is that those who love Jesus will follow his teaching.

Evidence of love is obedience and Jesus demonstrated His love on the Cross. Jesus went away to be with the Father but sent the Advocate, the Holy Spirit to continue to teach, help, and counsel. Holy Spirit would give confidence, courage, and peace of mind to carry out their purpose.

In current times, Holy Spirit is here with us and our mood is always lifted by the positive affirmation God gives us through His Son. We experience the blessings from Holy Spirit in in our daily living because of Jesus’ love and we gain momentum from the victory provided by our Savior. Let us accept this love, write it in our heart, and let it shine bright for others to see.

Father God, You are always here when we need You most. Because of Jesus, we are given a helper to be with us forever. There is peace even if afraid, discouraged, or tempted. The gloomy outlook has lifted because the paradigm shifted when Jesus gave His life on the cross. There is a bright future because Jesus loves us. New life now, into the future, and forever more … in Jesus’ name we pray, amen.