"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever--"
Just hours before his arrest and crucifixion, Jesus offers his disciples this great promise full of hope and assurance. Jesus knows that his disciples will be scared and confused when facing the events that are about to unfold, and he promises them an advocate who will remain with them even after he departs from their earthly presence. Some translations call him a comforter, helper, or counselor; and all are correct, for there is no single word that can fully describe the Holy Spirit. Not only does Jesus assure his disciples that the Spirit of God himself will be sent, but he guarantees that the Spirit will remain with them forever.
What a great promise! Jesus’ words here call to mind a picture of a legal defense representative; a wise counselor who not only speaks on our behalf, but also guides us as we navigate the confusing pathways of life, the uncharted territory of unexpected circumstances, and the struggles of discerning God’s will and purpose for our lives. And what a great comfort it is to us, knowing that life is full of twists and turns, that the Holy Spirit, our advocate and our helper is with us each step of the way.