The Way
There
is a lot of confusion in both John and Acts. The disciples are confused by what
Jesus is talking about. They are afraid and want straightforward answers. Where
is Jesus going and how can they follow? What is the way? And Jesus does not
give straightforward answers. And yet so often we read this as if he is.
Believe certain things about Jesus and you get into heaven. “Way” can be read
in many ways, not just route. Another reading is that Jesus is talking about
the way of life he has lived, a way of life that reveals the heart of God – a
big theme in John’s gospel. When we live this way, we live the truth of God’s
dream and hope for them and all creation; the dream and hope of abundant life. The
first Christians were called people of the way – whose lives of compassion were
in marked contrast to those around them. How does this help us see the risen
Christ among us now and active in our world today?
Angela
N. Parker says, “We must be people of the way, being the dream and hope of God,
as we participate in abundant life while here on earth together…. Our greater
works must exhibit the way, the truth, and the life for communities that continue
to be disconnected and denied access to all of the areas that can bring
abundant life such as quality food, access to medical care, affordable housing,
and continued dignity no matter what their identities are. That is the way, the
truth, and the life for a collective people with a singular heart.”[1]
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