“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34)
By Ron Schmalz
A good friend at work was disappointed about being passed over for a much-deserved promotion, and I felt called to be a sounding board where he could share his feelings in confidence.
As the situation unfolded, I called upon the Holy Spirit to guide my words as I listened to my friend. I realized that my role was not to give advice, but to affirm all the good things he and his teams were accomplishing for the company. By relying upon the Holy Spirit, I lifted up prayers of thanksgiving, asking that my friend’s skills be more broadly recognized by other leaders within the company.
During this time, the Holy Spirit guided my coworker to a sense of peace and forbearance, and these fruits became an important part of his journey forward. By encouraging my colleague to persevere instead of falling prey to discouragement and frustration, that opportunity to be the Lord’s presence to my coworker ultimately resulted in him receiving a more significant promotion. And, by following God’s will, I was able to resist giving human advice and instead chose prayers for wisdom and listening.
Throughout scripture, Jesus demonstrates the importance of prayer while seeking his Father’s will. We are called into that same prayerful relationship with Jesus. By listening to the Lord’s still, quiet voice, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to fulfill his great commandment to love one another. We can become instruments of the Lord’s love and mercy if we rely upon the Holy Spirit to give us the knowledge and wisdom necessary to be his presence to others.
Pray
Lord, help me to seek, know, and understand your will that I might be a more worthy instrument of your love.
Reflect
How is the Holy Spirit guiding you to answer the Lord’s calling?
Discuss
Think about a coworker who is going through difficult circumstances. How is the Holy Spirit calling you to be the Lord’s presence?
Ron Schmalz is semi-retired and is the past president of the Santa Cruz Chapter in California. He and his wife Terri live in Connecticut and enjoy exploring New England.