The Holy Spirit is one of the most frustrating concepts to understand in all of Christianity.  Sure, I get there is a “Holy Trinity”… but I get the concept of Father and Son (even with an emaculate conception) so much better than Holy Ghost/Spirit.  But, I think I got a clue to better understanding it this week.

Here’s a verse about the Holy Spirit as we get started:

John 14:25-27

²⁵“All this I have spoken while still with you. ²⁶But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. ²⁷Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (NIV)

Have you ever seen the trees blowing in the wind before it rains?  The way the leaves turn up so you see the lighter side and the difference the wind running through them makes a rustling sound?  It is a gorgeous and peaceful sound… the way I would imagine the trees giving their praise and worship.  They are standing there, tall and proud, “raising” their hands and the wind helps them “applaud” the splendor of His creation.   This is how I envision the Holy Spirit, like the wind that blows through, reminding those trees to lift their hands in praise, bringing the peace that comes with the breath of fresh air, a reminder that can wash over us again and again, even as a demonstration of the power of God when the wind rips through them.  It’s the whisper of the wind through those leaves that we hear with our ears. It’s the applause of Heaven that we can see demonstrated by nature. It should be our reminder of God’s glory so we will also give praise. If the trees can lift their hands and even bow down to His majesty, shouldn’t we?

I also like “the Counselor”… What is a counselor? Someone we go to for their advice/knowledge (like for dealing with a problem), someone who stands on our behalf (think lawyers, “counsellors”).  In the KJV, that part is translated, “the Comforter”.  All these words to me are so comforting, empowering even.  I have so much to learn!

Now it’s your turn. How do you envision the Holy Spirit? Am I the only one who struggles with this concept?