Collect for Easter 5
1 Peter 2: 2-10
John 14: 1-14
The way. The truth. And the Life
We probably quote Jesus’ familiar reply to Thomas most often at a funeral, when we wish to bring comfort and hope to the bereaved. We understand Jesus’ message of hope, because we know the context of the cross and the empty tomb. But the disciples, hearing those words for the first time, and not knowing what was to happen in the following hours, are confused. Thomas thinks that Jesus is telling them that He will be travelling somewhere, and Thomas wants a map. Philip still sees Jesus as a prophet who can help them understand the sometimes distant God about whom they have been taught in the Old Testament. They still struggle to grasp who Jesus is, they are feeling unsure about what’s happening and they want reassurance. They know they are being sent on a journey, but that’s all they know. They want to make sure Jesus will be with them.
In our Christian lives, we too are all on a journey; unlike the disciples, we have the advantage of knowing our destination; but like them, without Jesus, we couldn’t know how we’re going to get there. With Him alongside us, we can be certain.
He is the Way. On our journey, there will be signposts that will ensure we keep to the path. Prayer. Scripture. Worship. Spiritual guides. He walks alongside – even if sometimes we don’t recognise Him.
He is the Truth. False teachers will tempt us, lies will be told to deceive us but we will recognise them when we keep our eyes upon Jesus.
He is the Life. Eternal life, through God’s grace and Jesus’ sacrifice We are on this earth for a season, our gifts given to further God’s purpose, and when our task is complete, we are called home. And then Life actually begins
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Who does God send to tell the World?
You.
Praying Together 21st May 2023
People ask how to discern truth from the well-crafted lies of the enemy. Protected by His promise, the answer is simple. In prayer, just ask whether you can see Jesus in their words and deeds.
Praying Together 14th May 2023
We too are challenged to live as disciples. We have the benefit of scripture and history. We know that the story will end with Christ victorious.
Praying Together 30th April 2023
Jesus uses the metaphor of the sheep and the shepherd to describe the relationship between leaders and the people they lead.
Praying Together 23rd April 2023
He comes to us in so many ways in order that we may see Him.. In creation. In forgiveness. In salvation. In love. In new life. All these free gifts of grace – but it is up to us to choose to see them, with every one of our senses.
Praying Together 16th April 2023
However it may happen, when we see Him, we proclaim Him in the same words as Thomas – ‘My Lord and my God’ and award Him our trust. Forever.
Praying Together Easter Day 9 April 2023
The only way that we know that the victory over death is permanently won is if we accept that the tomb is empty.
Praying Together 2nd April 2023
And just as the donkey is a figure at the beginning of the Gospel story, so a donkey is present at its end.
Praying Together 26th March 2023
We have to ask ourselves if, like Thomas, we are prepared to follow Jesus at whatever cost
Praying Together 19th March 2023
Perhaps, then instead of just giving chocolate and flowers on Mothering Sunday, we might resolve to offer love in return throughout every day of the year
Praying Together 12th March 2023
The story of the woman at the well has been described as one of the most significant to our understanding of the Gospel message.
Praying Together 5th March 2023
This day is all that is good and fair.
It is too dear, with its hopes and invitations to waste a moment on yesterdays.