Advocates Newly Appreciated

May 17, 2021

Scripture

“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.” (Romans 8:14-16 NLT)

Advocates Newly Appreciated

My diaries were subpoenaed by the defense attorney. A few years ago I was a crown witness in a sexual assault case and I was using notes from those diaries from 20 years before to inform my testimony. When the OPP officer handed me the subpoena I was rattled and felt nakedly exposed to the justice system.

The Crown Attorney hired a lawyer to advise me of my rights and I discovered the power of an advocate in a new way. As she guided me through what needed to be done, blacking out large portions of my diaries (your secrets are still safe), I felt safe and protected within the justice system. When you have resources, the system can become your friend – sadly, not everyone’s good fortune.

Hours before his own arrest and trials, Jesus told his friends “But I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me. …. he will guide you into all truth.” As I ruminated on those words the other day I was reminded of my experience with my legal advocate – she helped me in profound ways that released fear and anxiety.

In the same way that recent morning I felt the spiritual Advocate internally affirming that I can come to God in safety and friendship as She pointed to Jesus. I heard his words – “Remember you are loved by the Father in the same way I am”. My natural insecurities and anxieties were released for those few moments at least – the power of the Advocate and the embrace of the Father.

A Prayer for Today

God who gives us a voice, thank you for the gift of the Spirit of Truth, truth about our lives and your love. Help us experience that spirit advocacy giving us freedom to worship, love and serve you …. For Jesus’ sake