The doctrine of the Trinity invites us to consider how a God constituted by relationship—the Father with the Son, the Son with the Spirit, the Spirit with the Father—draws us into that relationship with God and one another. Gradually or suddenly, through the work of the Spirit, we come to know our belonging to the Father and to Christ’s body.
In such loving relationships, truth is discovered. But people cannot bear the truth all at once, so discipleship and faith formation are gradual processes of listening for the Spirit’s voice. Christian practices such as worship, learning, and service are occasions for people of all ages to be “guided into truth.” Such practices are rooted in baptism, in which God draws us into a lifelong relationship in which we grow into truth and love over time—guided by the Spirit, accompanied by Jesus, and having peace with the Father.
In Romans, we hear the truth of how love originates and grows in us: Poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, God’s love gives us a hope that will never disappoint. Christian community offers the delightful opportunity to experience one’s own growth in hope, faith, and love, and to witness others’ growth as they too are drawn more deeply into relationship with the triune God. Trinity Sunday offers the delightful opportunity to celebrate that growth.
Gospel: John 16:12-15
Jesus’ ongoing presence with the disciples will be borne by the coming Spirit, who will guide them and communicate to them Jesus’ will and glory.
[Jesus said,] 12“I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”