Thursday, June 6, 2024

Gospel Reflection: Who do you say that i am?

The Rev. Rob Stevens

Mark 8:27–30

Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” And they answered him, “John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Messiah.” And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him.

Who do we say that Jesus is? Such a good question to wonder about these days.

Lately, I’ve seen and heard Jesus co-opted by political movements, countries and all sorts of things that are frighteningly blasphemous. We humans seem to consistently seek to make sure everyone knows that “God is on OUR side!” I think the perspective that is more helpful is to wonder and hope that “WE are on God’s side.” This is a much more realistic and I believe humble approach to the question of, “Who do we say that Jesus is?” Because if we use Jesus simply support our fearful beliefs and ambitions, then…yikes!

Who is Jesus to me? I have faith that Jesus is the Messiah. The One who leads us to a life of curiosity and wonder….not necessarily certainty. The One that draws us toward each other…not away. That One helps us to work for peace…not war. The One that reminds us repeatedly that what happens to any one of us affects us all. The One that loves without reservation ALL of Creation. This is the Jesus that I seek to follow and proclaim.

I encourage you to approach this question today. Ponder it. If you were asked by a friend, how would you answer? Jesus asked his friends this question, “Who do YOU say that I am.” Their answer mattered…and so does ours.