By Brother Stephen Rankin

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)

For whatever reason, men are infamously resistant to asking for directions when they are traveling. My dad used to say, “I’m not lost, I just don’t know where I am.” I admit to having similar tendencies. But when push comes to shove, I ask for directions.

A moment’s pondering shows how truly astonishing it is that many people think that, like men insisting that they can find the way on their own, we can figure out how to live a vibrant and spiritually fulfilling life without asking God for direction. We could stand having some of Thomas’ candor when, during the Last Supper, he says in response to Jesus, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?”

The disciples celebrating Passover with Jesus must have been confused by some things Jesus is saying. Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell us the words that Jesus says as he adds to the well-known Passover seder (order): “This is my body…this is my blood…” In John’s gospel, he is telling them about what is to come. He is going to prepare a place for them and for us. Telling them that they know the way to the place where he is going, which provokes Thomas’ protest already mentioned.

Then comes these everlasting, life-giving words: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

I was talking to a friend the other day about his recent change in job situations. His new position may be jeopardized by the recent cuts in federal spending. He only has been in the job for a few weeks, but he knows, from experience, that the One who led him to this job will provide for him if circumstances change. His confidence in the way, the truth, the life, stands firm.

As we approach Easter, we cling to him who is the way, the truth, the life. Jesus, we trust in you. We follow your directions.