Momentum For Monday, March 10th 2025

“And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.” (Romans 8:26)

If all goes as planned, I'll be in Greece when this drops. I'll be there studying abroad for a couple weeks for school. And hopefully, I'll be able to squeeze in some exploring for my own personal enjoyment.

In preparation for this, I started practicing Greek on the Duolingo app on my phone. A few months won't give me enough practice under my belt, but I figured any learning is better than none before I get there. Thank goodness for Google translate on my phone.

I'm learning the basic phrases, I came across what is perhaps my favorite Greek word so far. I recognized it from previous Bible studies years ago. The Greek word is παρακαλώ, which simply translates as "please" or "you're welcome" in today's Greek. However, in Scripture, this same Greek word is used to refer to the Holy Spirit and carries a bigger definition.

For Scripture, it means several things. To call for, beseech, admonish, beg, to come along side, and other descriptions. But I think the word please or you're welcome is also fitting. It reminds me of the gentleness of the Holy Spirit that works on our behalf. 

Scripture calls the Holy Spirit an advocate and helper. The idea of "please" and "you're welcome" seems characteristic of an advocate or helper that helps us in our weaknesses. No pushing. No dictating. But advocating on our behalf from within, since that's exactly where the Holy Spirit resides. 

Now, that is something to remember when things seem overwhelming throughout the week. The Holy Spirit is working on your behalf. You may not see or feel it, but it's happening.

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”

(John 14:26)