Jesus is THE life - the way the truth and life (IV)

Proverbs tells us that there is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death (Proverbs 14:12). In a culture that so prizes individualism, it is far too easy to live a life that is independent of God. But Jesus is telling use here, that life in all its fullness comes to those who in child like dependence on Him, bring every issue, every dispute, every though captive unto the obedience of Christ. It is to swim against the cultural current, but in doing so He is telling us that we will find direction (the way), the Truth that sets us free, and life abundant and eternal.

In this quote from John 14:6 Jesus is telling us that He is not only the way to life, not only is He the Truth that sets us free to live the abundant life (John 8:32; 10:10b), but He is the very essence of life itself. Again He is not saying that He is one of many ways to the abundant life, but with the definite article (the life) He is claiming to be the only way so such a life. To put it another way, what is being claimed here, is that life truly worth living is to be found only in a vital connection with Him who is the way, the truth and the life.

Here is the exclusivity of Christianity again. Again this is not exclusivity of the Church or my little group, but it is Christ Himself who is saying this about Himself. Many would perhaps object that they have a life worth living outside of Christ. I would however ask if it is truly a life of abundance. We are not talking here about material possessions, but rather a life full of rich and satisfying relationships, a life where love is given and received, a life of grace and hope and peace. I am not saying that I have arrived here, because part of this is that the Kingdom is both here and not yet. We are promised this life, but we are to contend for it. And when we do, keeping our eyes on Him who is the way the truth and the life, we enter into life in spite of the circumstance.

Lord Jesus, when Paul tells us that for him to live is Christ (Philippians 1:21), he is not telling that life is not without difficulties. Indeed my troubles compared to Paul’s seem insignificant (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). What Paul seems to be telling us though, is that when we are vitally connected to You, we are able to rise above the circumstances. Indeed Paul’s letter to the Philippians from jail is full of joy. You are reminding me this morning Lord, that my life is hid with You (Colossians 3:3). But this does not mean that I hide from life, rather that in You and with You I am fully engaged in life. And this brings meaning and purpose and hope in the midst of the chaos. Truly you are the life, and I praise You and bless You again this morning in Your precious Name Amen