It seems that we each have a favorite person of the Trinity. Some automatically pray to the Spirit, some to Jesus, others to God the Father.
Whilst is is incredibly difficult to understand the Trinity, we are also bound to do what we can to understand the nature of our Triune God and his work in our lives.
In Deuteronomy 6:4 we read: “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.” This verse declares the oneness of God. The Bible consistently affirms that there is only one God. Yet, within this oneness, we find the mystery of the Trinity: one God in three Persons. The Hebrew word used for “one” here is echad, which implies a composite unity. It is the same word used in Genesis 2 to describe the union of a man and woman in marriage, that is, two individuals becoming one flesh. This gives us a glimpse into the complex unity of the Trinity. God is one in essence, yet three distinct Persons coexisting in perfect harmony and unity.
Into this unity we have the distinctiveness of each Person of God. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” The Word refers to Jesus, the Son. He is distinct from the Father and the Holy Spirit, yet fully God. Jesus took on human form to redeem humanity. Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Comforter. The Spirit is also distinct from the Father and the Son, yet fully God. The Spirit empowers believers and guides us.
The practical implications of the Trinity are interesting for us. Firstly, the Trinity reveals a divine relationship of love and unity. We as believers are invited into this relationship. Secondly, just as the Trinity and our relationship with God is community based, so we are called to live our Christian lives in community with others. Our unity as believers reflects the Holy Trinity. Thirdly, our worship of God should include all three Persons of the Trinity.
The Trinity remains a beautiful mystery, a truth which we embrace by faith. Let us continue to explore and appreciate the depths of God’s nature, knowing that our understanding is limited but our hearts can respond in worship and awe.
GOSPEL
The Lord be with you
And with your spirit.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 28:16-20
Glory to you, O Lord
The eleven disciples set out for Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had arranged to meet them. When they saw him they fell down before him, though some hesitated. Jesus came up and spoke to them. He said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, make disciples of all the nations; baptise them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to observe all the commands I gave you. And know that I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.’
The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.