April 8, 2018
John 20:24-31…“But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.” vs. 31
John bares his soul as he makes plain his intention for writing his gospel. He tells us that every word has been chosen to help us believe that Jesus is the Christ. Notice that he doesn’t use the past tense–to believe that Jesus was the Messiah is of no benefit. No, John wants us to know that Jesus is the Christ, now and forever, and it’s through relationship with him that we have life now and forever. That means our quest for the historical Jesus, while bringing some sense of satisfaction and enjoyment, does little to stimulate our believing. Rather, it’s the incarnate presence of God in the world today, speaking through and embodying the loving and caring message of Jesus, that gives peace and healing to our yearning souls. That Christ’s presence binds us together as believers and demonstrates clearly God’s love for the entire world. In Christ, we discover that true faith is far more than reciting the Apostles or Nicene Creeds in worship. Authentic faith envelops us and touches our hearts. It’s like spa time in the water of life–a soaking in of God’s love through the caring kindness of our believing brothers and sisters! We emerge from the water energized and cleansed, ready to continue the mission of Jesus, sent by God’s grace to make a difference for good.
Thought for the Day: Where am I most likely to feel Christ’s presence?
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