Thursday 01 May 2014

Background

Towards the end of his earthly life Jesus meets with all hisdisciples to make them aware of, and help them understand what issoon to happen. He is concerned to provide them with some messagesthat will help them through the dark days after his death.

Verses 1-8 provide much comfort and are often read at funeralservices, reminding people that there is a place for them in themany dwelling places in "my Father's house" (v. 2).

But Thomas again is brave enough to ask the question: "How canwe know the way?" (v. 5)

The next few verses speak of the close relationship Jesus haswith his Father, who is God. Jesus says that the disciples (and ustoo) can know God through looking at Jesus. Jesus is claiming thatthe Father lives in him and works through him. This is a uniqueclaim that seems to exclude many people and has often been takenout of context from the rest of the passage.

Verses 6 and 7 are seen by some as being exclusive, as theysuggest that unless you believe in Jesus you cannot know God.Others would suggest that it is only through Jesus we can knowabout the unique relationship that is possible with God, theFather.

Verses 8-14 reveal Jesus talking about that special relationshipthat he has with his Father, who is living in Jesus, and Jesus whois living in the Father. This mutuality of the relationship issomething that has enabled Jesus to reveal the truths about God andwill continue to reveal truths to believers.

To Ponder

• The passage contains some comfort and searching questions.Which ones speak to you? And how have they enabled you to grow morein your faith?

• Spend some time today remembering those who have been a part ofyour journey and give thanks.

• Reflect on what the statement, "I am the wa,y the truth and thelife" means to you.