Remembrance

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”  (John 14:26, ESV)

Sitting on the cold tile floor of my residence hall, tears streaming down my face, I was at a loss for words. Somehow I knew that my weeping spoke clearly enough what was in my heart.

I was a sophomore in college and my faith had grown by leaps and bounds. I was beginning to understand what Jesus meant when He said, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” (John 4:32, ESV). I was finding, in the Scriptures, food that truly satisfied my heart’s longings.

Less than a week later I shared what I had learned with a group of people I frequently prayed with, but the powerful emotions I had experienced in my room were no longer present. As I’ve gotten older I have frequently found this to be the case. For a time I felt as if there was something wrong with me or my faith that I was unable to return to those moments of powerful revelation and experience them as if it were the first time. Maybe you have been there too.

I am reminded of a couple things from the Word. First, when God fed the Israelites as they wandered in the wilderness, they quickly came to understand that they couldn’t live off of yesterday’s manna. It simply would not keep overnight (except on the Sabbath). Yesterday’s revelations can only take us so far. Yes, the things we learn from God each day continue to guide us throughout our lives, but we need fresh revelations to move forward on the path before us.

Second, the Holy Spirit reminds us of all of things Jesus has said (see John 14:26 above). There may be a few of you who, like me, need reminding from time to time. We may find ourselves in situations that feel overwhelming, when the Holy Spirit gently reminds us of what He spoke to our hearts the last time we felt overwhelmed, and the comfort that revelation brought us.

The emotions we feel the first time we receive revelation and/or clarity of the Word serve as anchor points. They lock in the truth we have received so that they will not be forgotten. The emotion may no longer be present, but the truth that accompanied them will not be shaken.

There is nothing wrong with us that we can’t feel those same emotions whenever we come upon that scripture, or that truth. It is perfectly normal. I am thankful that those emotions were the Gardener’s loving care ensuring that the planted seed would take root and grow.

Be thankful for the times of revelation, but no less thankful for the times of remembrance.

As always, these are the musings of a mindful disciple. Blessings on your week!

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