John 14:6 – Who is Jesus?

“Jesus told him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.’” (John 14:6)

This was the first verse I had the girls at the orphanage memorize because it is that important. If the girls take nothing more away from my class than this truth, they are on their way to living a more Christ-centered life. This verse is simple, yet powerful. If we have any desire to be close to God, Jesus is how we get there.

Context: Jesus was speaking intimately with his disciples in this chapter, telling them about the future and what was to come. He could sense their uneasiness in the unknown, and so he gave this direction to comfort and assure them. We may not understand the kingdom of God, heaven, or where Jesus is physically at this moment, but we can be sure he is the one to be watching. He certainly has left us a bunch of great teaching nuggets in this chapter.

This verse is so key to our understanding of our lives and how we relate to this world as well. Jesus is the way, the only way, to our Heavenly Father. It’s nothing we do or have to accomplish. Jesus paid the price. Jesus gave his life for ours so that we could live together with him forever. Tapping into our devotion isn’t difficult when we remember Jesus’ promises and what he did for us on the cross.

Do you ever wonder about what that new life with God will be like? I sometimes do, the older I get. Ever find yourself disillusioned with the mindset of society these days? While mankind has been adrift for centuries away from God and his desired fullness of life for us, this verse can be that lifeline that pulls us back in.

Not only does Jesus identify himself as the only way to God, he also declares to be the truth and the life. Jesus is the Word, and the Word is truth. Jesus is truth, not just a good teacher but the creator of all that is. It can be mind-boggling when we realize who Jesus is, what he has done, and that he wants to be in relationship with us.

Take some time today to reflect on the life of Jesus, what he has taught you, and what he has done for you. Remember that he is still at work in our lives as we prepare ourselves to approach the Father one day.

Let’s pray. Lord, may I live my life in reverent awe of you and how you thought of everything. Thank you for revealing your truth to me. Nothing compares to your wisdom and majesty. Thank you for loving me and choosing me to be your child. May I be an honorable reflection of you. Help me to grow each day as I prepare to see you face to face. In Jesus’ name. Amen.