"The Spirit of truth... will take from what is mine and declare it to you." Jesus says in today's Gospel that the Spirit declares something to US. We actually have a kind of share in the blessed life of the Trinity through this spiritual declaration. In particular, God gives us the gift of his truth. Traditionally, we say that God--the Blessed Trinity--is the source of all truth, beauty, and goodness.
Today's reading reminds us that truth exists, that it comes from God, and that we can know it, hear it, and live according to it. "But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth."
This is so important to remember in today's cultural climate. These days, the very idea of truth is a touchy subject. Because there is so much focus on tolerance and not offending anyone, we tend to shy away from discussions about "absolute" truth. Instead, we hear a lot of talk about "what's true for me" or "what's true for you." Too often we get confused about how to respect others' differing beliefs while still maintaining our own. Instead of embracing the fact that there is real truth--like, for example, the truth that God became man and was born of Mary--it is more popular to refer to "beliefs" and "traditions" and "practices," emphasizing that these things differ among people. Yes, those things differ. But truth does not change. Either Jesus is God, or he isn't. Either his claims were true or they weren't. It's not a matter of personal opinion.
The Holy Spirit helps to convince us of what is really right. But we needn't fear that this will lead us to be intolerant. It is this same Spirit within us that brings the fruits of love, peace, patience, kindness, and generosity.
BACK TO LIST