Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 The Church has to be on the watch


  John 14: 14 - 21
Jesus in his farewell discourse informs the disciples that though he will be going to the Father, they will experience His presence and care and the Holy Spirit will be given to them to continue their mission in the world. 
This Spirit is given to the faith community as an advocate or Paraclete (parakletos). This word evokes a rich, all-embracing picture of the Spirit as a constant presence, teacher, comforter, guide, helper, friend, consoler, spokesperson, and witness. The Paraclete is intimately tied to Jesus’s preparation of his disciples for their life after his ascension into heaven.                                                                                                
The love of God, made known in the incarnation, continues in the life of the community through the gift of the Paraclete. Jesus assures that though he is not physically with them he will dwell in them. The community will endure persecution as a result of its faith, but the promise of the Paraclete, who will be a co-witness to Jesus alongside the community, offers it encouragement. The Spirit serves as a reminder that the community will not be alone in its trials. Jesus has mandated the Church to confront the sin in the world. It is the Church’s mission to call upon all to examine their conscience and repent.
The Church needs the courage of the Spirit to be a witness of Christ’s values in society. It must work the uplift the marginalized, and challenge every unjust political and social structure that deprives people of their dignity. The Spirit leads and equips the Church to be Christ-centred, to cherish and practice the values of Christ in society, and to bear witness to Him.
Jesus lays emphasis on the universality and the missionary character of the Church, which is to embrace all nations and to proclaim the Kingdom of God. The community of believers is asked to reflect their master's character in this world. The love that they have seen in Jesus' life and death should continue in their lives. Eternal vigilance is needed for the church.
Prayer
Dear God, 
Provide us the spiritual strength to discern the reality of sin around us and build our faith on the true foundation of your word. Amen.

Rev Baby John
Immanuel Mar Thoma church Adoor
Diocesan secretary -Adoor Diocese 

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