Fr. Fernando Armellini SCJ
Claretian Publications Macau
Jesus promised not to leave his disciples alone, without protection and guidance. He said that he would pray to the Father, and He would “send the other Paraclete” who will always be with them. In ancient times, there was no establishment of lawyers; each defendant had to defend himself, bringing witnesses to exonerate himself. It happened sometimes, that some, though not guilty, was unable to prove one’s innocence or that, despite having committed the crime, deserved forgiveness. For her/him, there remained one last hope: that in the midst of the assembly there would be a person honored by all for her/his moral integrity. That blameless person, without uttering any word, would get up and go to place oneself at the side of the accused. This gesture is equivalent to an acquittal. No one would have dared to ask for more condemnation. This “defender” is called the “Paraclete” that is, “one who is called to the side of another who finds oneself in trouble.” The meaning of this title is, therefore, protector, helper, defender.
Jesus promises his disciples another Paraclete, since they already have one, he himself as John explains in his first letter: “My little children, I write you these things so that you may not sin; but if anyone does sin, we have a Paraclete by the Father’s side: the righteous Jesus Christ” (1 Jn 2:1).
And Jesus is the Paraclete inasmuch as our advocate with the Father not because he defends us from his wrath, provoked by our sins (the Father is always on our side, as Jesus). He protects us against our accuser, our opponent, sin. The enemy is sin and Jesus knows how to refute and reduce it to impotence. John reminds the Christians of his community this truth so that, in the midst of the difficulties of life, spiritual miseries, frailties, and many evil inclinations they won’t be discouraged, despaired, or lose the serenity of heart. The duty of Christians is to remain open to the impulse of the Spirit who always reveals new things and increase the joy and peace, that help people to pray better and free the heart from useless fears.
Translated by Fr. John Ledesma SDB
Abridged by Fr. Jijo Kandamkulathy CMF
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