Who Are You In?

John 14:8-17

It's an unfortunate truth that when we proclaim our love for Christ a label of some kind is immediately put on us. We're either the kind of Christian who condemns people, or the kind of Christian who wants to be sure everyone is "saved". A Christian is either viewed as closed-minded, opinionated, unable to accept current culture, or similarly in a negative point-of-view.

That's why it's always fun to me when people who know me discover I am working towards being an ordained minister. It truly tickles my soul when those around me struggle with my acceptance of science, homosexuality, rock and roll music, other world religions, and the like. It's especially fun for me when people ask me how I can be so accepting of different ideas and people and still be a Christian.

My answer: Well, that's how I think Christ was.

Today's passage is from the book of John. I won't pretend to know as much as other people about that particular Gospel and will only say that my understanding of that Gospel is that it was written by a small group of people in such a way as to protect, preserve, and pass on their belief in Jesus as Christ. This is done not by what was previously considered strong evangelical declarations but by exposing the unbelief of those around Jesus.

Hence, when Jesus says, "How long have I been with you and you still don't get it?" he's highlighting the disbelief of his disciples. I can only imagine what it was like to be told by Jesus after 3 years of being his closest companion that I still don't get it. But, Jesus reminds them, another one is coming, one who will help them to understand. This "other" is what is called the Holy Spirit and the day we celebrate the coming of this Holy Spirit is this Sunday.

In the beginning of this school year I consoled a young woman as she learned of the untimely passing of her brother. I clearly remember being in the room as she broke down. I could feel her pain as I simply sat and shared the space with her. Her friends came in and she told them to leave as they began to speak. Other teachers came in and she asked them to leave her alone. But, for whatever reason I wasn't asked to leave, so I remained and sat quietly and simply shared in her pain.

This young woman began to open up, telling me of how terrible her life was, how bad of a person she was for the things she's done, and how it was impossible for anyone to love her. I asked for her permission to hold her hand and say a prayer. In as few words as possible I thanked God for her, asked God to continue to reach out and hold her as she goes through this difficult time in her life. I also thanked God for always loving her, no matter what. She was not a Christian, but knew I was one.

Tuesday was the last day for our Seniors, and as she came to say goodbye to me she gave me the best hug I've had in a while, looked me in the eye with a smile in hers, and said a very simple thank you for everything. Later that day she led her class in a prayer and in the silence of that room, broken only by the words she spoke to her God, a presence of calm and peace entered.

The Spirit of God came to visit us that day.