There are so many gems in this reading. The wisdom Jesus shares may have gotten lost on his original audience because they were so close to him. Maybe they were blinded by the light, so to speak. While we think it would be obvious who Jesus was, his initial followers were held back for some reason. We may wonder how they could be so hesitant.
We’re like that, too, to some degree. We may let influences outside the church distract us from our utmost devotion. We may take Jesus for granted or not give him all the honor he deserves. In those moments, Jesus needs to reel us in and set our minds straight. What insight can we take here from Jesus?
It’s good to know where Jesus is going and that he’s making room for us. Well, we might not know “where,” but we know how to get there. How does it make you feel to know that Jesus thinks of his followers and is making a way to have us with Him forever? That’s salvation in its purest sense.
I’m glad Thomas asked for clarification, because Jesus’ answer is all that we need to know the way. Verse 6 is one of the first verses I helped my orphan girls memorize. It’s a good verse to help us stay grounded, knowing who should be leading our lives. “Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Jesus is how we find our way to Him, to our final destination.
The disciples weren’t satisfied and wanted more. Philip even had the courage to ask to see God. Didn’t they already know Jesus was the Son of God? Did they think Jesus would whisk them into heaven so they could meet God face to face, as if God and Jesus were not one? The disciples had already seen God, lived with Him, and learned from Him. That was a lot for them to grasp.
Jesus shows us what our new life will look like. When we follow Jesus, we can expect abundance. Jesus said, “You can ask for anything in my name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.” Again, Jesus separates his identity from the Father. What a life of freedom that we can ask God for anything!
What things will bring glory to God? Those are the things Jesus is inviting us to ask for. Jesus is giving us permission to “name drop” and encourages us to use His name when making those God honoring requests. Psalm 96:8 says, “Give to the Lord the glory he deserves! Bring your offering and come into his courts.” God is going to reward that attitude of praise and worship with answered prayer.
No matter what, when you are moving about your day, remember the “way” to the Father. How do you respond to that?
Let’s pray. Father, thank you for walking with me each day. Forgive me when I don’t see you or acknowledge your presence. Impress on my heart the ways you want me to impact this world. May I always walk in your way, following you to the destination you are preparing for me. I want all I say and do to bring you glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
