Parting Gifts

    In our Gospel reading this morning Jesus gives his disciples the ultimate in parting gifts - “The promise of the Holy Spirit and the gift of peace.”   
 
    If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to a loved one or a close friend you’ll begin to understand some of what must have been going in their hearts as Jesus prepares to say goodbye.   If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to someone close to you for an extended period of time you’ll know that  parting gestures can make all the difference and the more personal they are the better they get. 
 
   Photographs, letters, trinkets are often given at farewells as reminders to those who are separated that their love and friendship still remains the same.  These items are often a source of great comfort and reassurance to those who receive them.   So what gift does the ultimate giver of all give to his friends as he prepares to leave them?  The promise of  the Comforter, the Advocate, Holy Spirit and the gift of life who will fill them to overflowing with the kind of peace that passes all understanding.  Do you know what the best thing about all this is though?  The gift is for us too.
 
    So the next time you find yourself struggling and feeling lost, why not use this gift that he has given you and let the Holy Spirit fill your heart and mind with the peace that passes all understanding.
 Till next time. Andrew

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