When I first started driving, I was pretty "directionally challenged." Before cell phones and Google Maps were commonplace, I had to learn how to find my way around with printed out turn-by-turn directions from Map Quest.
I tried using physical books with maps but they ended up with me feeling stressed out and frustrated. If I missed my exit, I would very quickly get lost. There was more than one (or five!) occasions where I called my Dad from a gas station pay phone trying to explain where I went wrong.
We all need road maps, sign posts in life, to help us know where we are going, both in our daily lives but also in our spiritual and emotional lives.
Today's Gospel account reminds me how much the Holy Spirit is our road map. Think of a heavenly version of Google Maps!
Jesus tells His disciples when the Holy Spirit comes, we will be guided to all truth. The Holy Spirit leads us to truth, the fullness of truth. One of the jobs of the Holy Spirit is to help us know the truth about our Faith and ourselves. The Holy Spirit will never contradict Jesus or the Father because they are all on the same team.
There are times we may wrestle or struggle with questions about our Faith or how to handle certain pastoral situations. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide and lead you. What is true in this teaching or situation? How shall I respond? What would You have me do here? What is the next step I am to take?
We all need maps to help us get safely to our destination.
Let us ask and rely on the Holy Spirit to be our spiritual road map as we navigate life.
The Holy Spirit is our road map. // @amoderngraceClick to tweet
A spiritual library that is orthodox and in line with Church teaching is so helpful for discernment. See our blog post of suggested reading here.
Patty Breen is a full-time lay minister who finds joy in running, strong cups of coffee, and all things Ignatian spirituality. A Midwestern gal from the mitten state, she is constantly learning to find grace in all things. She is passionate about ministry, writing, a great lipstick color, and smiling is her favorite. Find out more about her here.