John 14:1-7
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Today’s passage is the continuation of Jesus final teaching and instructions to his closest followers. Read John 14:1-7 allowing Jesus to paint a picture with his words.
In first century Israel, marriage was divided into two stages. When a man and woman became betrothed, they were legally married although they did not yet live together. The woman stayed in her family home while the man went away to add a room onto his father’s house. Only when the room was ready would the groom come back for his bride so they could live as husband and wife.
Betrothal was a time of belonging while still waiting.
The disciples are about to experience Jesus’ physical absence for the first time in three years. In great tenderness, Jesus gives them something to hope for. He will come back, and when he returns their experience of him will be beyond anything they have known.
Every follower of Jesus will face times of waiting. We will wait for an answer to our prayers, or wait for direction, or wait for Jesus to come through in one way or another. Our hope in times of waiting is that Jesus will grow our faith and ultimately lead us to new depths of relationship with him.
It might be that you are in a time of waiting right now. If not, you will be at some point. What do you want to say to Jesus about this? What do hope will happen in your time of waiting? What do you hope for when your time of waiting is over?
Read John 14:1-7 again focusing on Thomas’ question and Jesus’ answer.
It’s important to note what Jesus doesn’t say in this response to Thomas. He doesn’t say that he will show his followers the way – he says that he is the way. He doesn’t say that he will tell his followers the truth – he says that he is the truth. And he doesn’t say that he will give his followers life – he says that he is life.
It might seem easier to follow a list of rules or a guidebook or map or some kind, but Jesus calls us to a loving relationship. He is not a means to an end – he is the end. Only through Jesus’ love will we know God and know ourselves. And we will only experience life to the extent we experience him.
Stop to contemplate what it means to follow Jesus in a moment-by-moment, love-filled relationship. Talk to Jesus about any thoughts, feelings or questions that arise.
What might Jesus be inviting you to do to know him better?
How will you respond to him?
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