Understand the Counselor
Today’s readings reveal the transforming power of faith in adversity. Paul and Silas, imprisoned in Philippi, sing hymns at midnight and witness a miraculous earthquake that leads to the jailer’s conversion. Jesus promises the Advocate who will guide and convict the world, while the Psalmist gives thanks for God’s faithfulness in times of trouble.
Consider where the Holy Spirit, the Counselor, is inviting you to trust more deeply today.
Understand the Counselor
The Counselor, or Advocate, that Jesus promises in John 16:7 is the Holy Spirit. His role is to be with us, to teach us everything, and to remind us of all that Jesus has said, as we hear in John 14:26. He also convicts the world concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment, as today's Gospel reading explains. The Catechism of the Catholic Church speaks of the Holy Spirit as "the Lord and Giver of Life" (CCC 687).
