Sunday 20 April 2008
- Bible Book:
- John
"Thomas said to him, 'Lord, we do not know where you are going, how can we know the way?' Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him'". (v.5-7)
Background
This passage is set towards the end of Jesus' last supper withhis disciples, after Judas has left to summon the authorities toarrest Jesus. It is the last moment of calm among friends beforethe chaotic events of the trial and Crucifixion begin. However,Jesus is not making much sense to his disciples with this talk of"dwelling places" and going to prepare a place for them. He isbeginning to frighten them and he knows it - twice he has to tellthem not to be afraid, not to "let their hearts be troubled".
In Britain, even if they are not regular churchgoers, most folkswill have heard parts of this passage read at funerals. Sadly, manyof us have heard it as a warning - "Sort yourself out and believein Jesus or else!" This was just as confusing for those firstdisciples. Jesus was not reprimanding Thomas for being puzzled, butreassuring him.
Yes, it is a statement about the uniqueness of Jesus in history -God "so loved the world that he gave his only Son" is explained anddeveloped in
But in today's passage Jesus comforts a frightened friend who isbeginning to think about being parted by death from someone heloves. Jesus is not slapping him down nor telling him that othersare not coming too. Jesus' words are about the inclusion of all whoare in a relationship with him, not about the exclusion of doubtersor non-believers.
His answer, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" is still asmysterious as it is thrilling. There is no simple box to tick to be'in the club,' but there is an offer of continued friendship withJesus in a world that can still be frightening:
"I am the way. Risk walking with me and I'll show you how togo".
To Ponder
Put yourself in Thomas' place. What would you askJesus about death and dying?
Early Christians were sometimes called 'People ofthe Way'. What might this description have to offer us today?