Been thinking a lot about what it means to be a paraclete, to need a paraclete, and to paraclete one another.
(Before I go any further, I apologize to all my Greek scholar friends as I anglicize “paraclete” as a noun and verb. I hope this doesn't cause you to twitch too much.)
Parakaleo: “to call to one’s side, exhort, console, comfort, encourage, alleviate grief, intercede, help.”
We immediately think of the word as used to describe the amazing Holy Spirit and everything He does in our lives. I love returning to the Farewell Discourse (John 14-17) as Jesus tells us about the essential Helper. But it is also the perfect description of how we live out the “one anothers” of Scripture.
How can I be a paraclete? What do I bring to the table? What fish and loaves can I contribute to the body of Christ and to a world in need? What gifts do I bring? A lot of hungry seekers and new believers are trying to figure out what it means to know and follow Jesus. How can I come alongside and paraclete those who want to grow?
For many of us--both individually and in community--we are coming out of a rough period. Some people are deconstructing their faith. Some people are reconstructing their faith. Some people are doing some much-needed remodeling and tweaking. How can I be a friend who is willing to sit alongside someone’s wrestling on the roller coaster?
Coming alongside. Continually inviting and encouraging people to experience a closer connection to Jesus. Not pushing someone to fit my mold. Not dragging someone along who is not ready. Offering the “hug and slug” we all need to keep us from straying like sheep.
“We urge (paraclete) you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone.” (1 Thess 5:14)
Opening the Word, not to beat someone up with it, but to let God do the judging and nudging. Inviting people to taste and see that the Lord is good. We have been studying Matthew on Tuesday nights and I have learned so much from watching Jesus interact with people. If the people in the Bible study are learning a tenth of what I am, we will be changed.
“O magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt His name together.” (Psalm 34:3)
I am so blessed to be in community with people who support, encourage, and point me to Jesus. It's far too easy to slip into apathy and lose our focus. I keep saying it: We need one another. This life stuff can be challenging. Don’t try this alone.
“Therefore encourage (paraclete) one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.” (1 Thess 5:11)
Much love,
Linda
The Cincinnati Refocus and Refuel Retreat is coming up soon--September 22-24. This is for Men and Women, anyone who desires a closer walk with Jesus. Everyone is welcome, but this getaway is especially worthwhile for those in ministry to pull away and make sure everything we're doing FOR God is OF God. Space is limited and the Early Bird rate ends September 7. For more information and to register: https://www.psalmone.org/refocus-and-refuel
For friends Down Under: I will be returning to Australia and New Zealand to minister in 2024. If you are interested in sponsoring and hosting a Refocus and Refuel Retreat (48-hour soul care retreat), a Day of Refreshing (6-hour retreat), teaching, speaking, consulting, or other ministry for men and women, please contact me to discuss the possibilities.