Helpers and the Holy Spirit

There is a picture with text (meme) going around the internet recently that quotes Fred Rogers or Mister Roger’s Neighborhood, as a child, watching things that scared him on the news. This quote tells that his mother instructed him to “look for the helpers”, that “you will always find people who are helping”.

This advice can be soothing and helpful to many of us as we find ourselves sheltered at home. It is indeed good that we have been recognizing and honoring healthcare workers, first responders, and those that are doing their best every day to keep our friends and families safe.

It can also feel a little isolating; to be so distant from the chaos that we see on the news. What if it doesn’t look like anyone is helping? What about those who live alone, or are feeling isolated because they can’t stay safe right now?

Our gospel lesson this weekend speaks of a different kind of helper.

In John 14, Jesus promises his disciples that in his absence, he will send his advocate, his helper: the Holy Spirit, to advocate for us in times of trial, doubt, and fear. The disciples, still unaware of what is about to happen to Jesus, fail to grasp that they won’t always be near God in the ways that they are used to. Their reality is about to change.

In this, Jesus assures them, and us, that no matter how different things will seem or appear to be, that God is continuing to promise to be with them, and us. We are promised God’s presence, through the Holy Spirit. And that presence is one of comfort, healing, and hope.

So, if you can’t seem to find where helpers are in the midst of trial, please find reassurance in the words of Jesus, that God is with us, through the Holy Spirit, always.

Amen.

Dan Miglets-Nelson