The Holy Spirit has many names. Advocate, companion, breath, wind, like a dove, paraclete, helper. The list goes on. Hard to describe something you cannot see. May not see with the way we see a person. Yet, there are signs.

I remember teaching a confirmation class years ago and I asked if they could see the wind. A teenage girl piped up, “no, but it sure messes up my hair”. Exactly, we see the results. Immortal, Invisible, God only wise”. But we can see where it has been.

The Holy Spirit is also a teacher, reminding us of what Jesus said. This time of year, we think of our school teachers who faithfully teach children. They, like Jesus remind students of lessons they already know as well as new information.

The Holy Spirit breathes new life into our being. A breath of fresh air is more than a saying. For spirit and breath are the same words in both Greek and Hebrew, in the Old and New Testaments.

This memorial weekend, I am reminded of a story about a child who asked what they names were in the bulletin one memorial weekend Sunday. The mother said, “Those are people who died in the service.” The kid said, “Which one the early or the late service.” Apparently, the child thought church was so boring it would be the death of her. Not to make lightly of those who died in battle. This weekend we remember there is no greater love than to lay one’s life down for a friend.

The Companion, the advocate, the teacher, doesn’t mean life will be ease and simple. It means we have someone guiding and teaching and comforting us along the way.

Jesus understood this. He was giving his farewell speech. Talk about giving your life for a friend. Did you know the book of Acts is written to Theophilus? That means friend of God. Therefore, the continued acts of apostles, disciples, is written to you and to me as a friend of God. Give a life up for a friend.

As he leaves, he is putting his affairs in order. Sorta his last will and testament. What will he leave us? Peace, the Holy spirit, a companion, advocate, teacher.

Peace, what a great word today. A peace that no one in the world can offer.

Just breathe. I remember years ago going to an exercise class and the instructor kept saying to us, “Don’t forget to breathe.” I remember thinking, it’s an involuntary action how can I forget what I never have to think about? But now, I so see the need to be reminded to breathe. Breathe in the Spirit. The Spirit will remind us of all Jesus taught, including he is the prince of peace.

Jesus sends us a companion. Walking with us, challenging sometimes, sometimes encouraging, nudging us.

Matthew Sleeth is reminding us of our need to focus on God one day a week. Sabbath is more than simply a suggestion. It if vital to our well being. May you find renewed time to re-create and let your soul catch up.

And know where ever you go, what ever you face, this companion goes with you.