“Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.” (John 14:5-7 KJV)
It is easy to see how Thomas and his compatriots misunderstood the Lord. Just like post-modern Christians, they constantly focused on the physical issues instead of applying the spiritual principles. Jesus was certain that He had explained to his followers where He was going and the way to get there, yet Thomas expressed their lack of understanding: “we do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Later, after the Lord’s resurrection, his disciples were referred to as “followers of the way.” Why? Because they understood that Christ is the way of salvation, the way to the Father’s house, the way of eternal life, and the way of knowing how to live in this world. He had said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Finally, they got it.
The baptizing prophet had challenged all to prepare the way of the Lord, the one who would take away the sin of the world. He is God’s way for mankind to follow from this life into eternal life; God’s way of salvation for all people; God’s way to peace on earth and goodwill to all people.
Our society boasts of religious tolerance and many people believe there are many ways to God. The Bible, however, is explicit about Jesus, the Way. Read today’s passage again . Jesus did not tell his disciples that He is one of many ways. He did not even say that He is the best way. Rather, He said that He is THE way. Yes, that is correct . . . the only way. If we want to go to the Father’s eternal house, then we must follow the Father’s way to get there. We will have to accept and receive Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son.
Dear Father, thank you for the way to your house. May your goodness and mercy follow us all the days of our lives as we continue our journey to get there. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today in the Way, the Truth, and the Life,