Photo was taken near Laragh, Co.Wicklow (Irl)

This tree could tell many stories including the many sheep that grazed underneath it down through the years. Perhaps it was a storm or simply old age but this tree eventually came crashing down. But its remains lying in this field are still a beautiful sight and an important link to the past.

Jesus said to his disciples: If you love me you will keep my commandments. I shall ask the Father, who will give you another Advocate to be with you for ever. ~John 14:15-7

We’re all familiar with a circus and particularly those who do the amazing acrobatics. From side to side they swing and jump enthralling the crowds that watch. It’s often done at great heights. The safety net underneath is crucial to the whole act. The net is there to save them should they fall from a height above. It’s presence underneath gives the athlete above so much confidence in his/her ability. The same can be said of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It too is like a safety net underneath us. It gives us confidence in all we do, it’s there to guide and direct us. The Holy Spirit has been described as someone who is there to comfort us in times of sorrow, enlighten us in times of darkness and make us brave and strong in times of weakness.

One of the best known prayers to the Holy Spirit is as follows:
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created and you shall renew the face of the earth.
O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy all you bring us. We make this prayer through Christ Our Lord. Amen