5/15/13- The Spirit as promise

⁴⁹ I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49)

Thoughts: The actual Greek is not "what" my Father has promised, but to "send the promise of my Father."  The reason why this is important, is the Holy Spirit is not a "what" but a "who."  Some have defined the Holy Spirit as impersonal energy or force- like electricity.  But the Holy Spirit is a promised person- much like the Messiah is a promised person.  The Trinity is not made up of a father, a son, and a mother.  Neither is the Trinity made of a father, son, and energy.  The Spirit of God is His Spirit much as our soul is a part of us.  The name Jesus uses of the Spirit is parakletos- the one who comes alongside to help.  He is a comforter and a counselor.  He is the Spirit of love, joy, and peace. But when the Spirit comes upon us strongly, there is power upon us.  Not as if we were plugged in, but that we are strengthened, helped, encouraged so that we can move forward.  The Spirit is the invisible presence of God among us. 

Prayer: Holy Spirit come and strengthen, encourage, and lift me up today that I might do your will.