"The Spirit comes gently and makes himself known by his fragrance. He is not felt as a burden, for he is light, very light. Rays of light and knowledge stream before him as he approaches. The Spirit comes with the tenderness of a true friend and protector to save, to heal, to teach, to counsel, to strengthen, to console." St Cyril of Jerusalem
Thinking of the Spirit as a true friend who saves, heals, teaches, counsels, strengthens and consoles ought to fill us with hope. We are not alone, ever, and the Spirit is our assurance that in all we do and are, God is with us in whatever role we need.
True friends are like that. No matter where we are in life, they stop, listen, reflect with us and respond for us and for our good. Knowing, experiencing and believing that the Spirit is God's way of assuring us that we have a true friend to accompany us on every step of our spiritual path is almost overwhelming in its beauty.
Those who have been blessed with a soul friend in their daily lives know this deeply. Realizing that God wants to be like that soul friend for us reminds us powerfully of the intimacy God seeks with us even when we fail to respond, but our negligence should not depress us. God waits for and upon us. God is like a vigilant and patient friend who knows us better than we know ourselves and is anxious to express his never failing love for us.
Today, ask the Spirit to be your friend in a way you can understand and celebrate.
Have you known God's spirit as soul friend? What is that like?
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