Bearing witness

John 15: 26 : 16:4

...the Counselor.....will bear witness to me...

I seldom watch shows where a court case goes on but I did recently. "I am Sam" is about a mentally challenged man, who had fathered a child, and looked after her as a single parent. After she grew to his 'mental age' (around 7 years old), the social services took her away for fostering and Sam had to go to court to produce evidence that he would be able to look after her. The lawyer had to produce witnesses who could testify to Sam's capability as a father. They had to bear witness about his ability so that he could get his daughter back. It was a really thoughtful movie - challenging us to ask what really makes a good father/parent? Is it one who can provide mental stimulation for the child or one who just knows how to love, as Sam, even with low IQ could do extremely well, and perhaps even better than many 'normal' persons.

This reminder about what an Advocate or Counselor (a legal term for one who will defend someone against an adversary and who guides that person during the ordeal of trial) does connects me with the thought in today's reading. I can see now how the Spirit plays that role for me. It is not only at the time of conversion. At many points in my journey, there have been troubles and trials. It may not be the type of persecution mentioned here by Jesus. But those personal troubles and trials are also times when my faith is easily shaken. At such times the Counselor who dwells within will "bear witness to Jesus", will remind me of who he is, what he has done in my life and why I can continue to hope even when the tunnel seems unnecessarily long and dark. Lord, I am grateful. I will try to remember your words and 'take heart' in the midst of adversities and challenges.