Streetlights: I AM SeriesSample

A Million Voices

We typically like to think we're not influenced by the messages of other people.  In reality, we are deeply affected by what we take in.  It could be videos on YouTube, a friend's opinion or a song we play on repeat.  The question is, are all messages good for us?  Are all messages true?  Specifically, in regards to the topics of God and how to live life, who has the right answers?  Let’s get Jesus’ take on this idea from John Chapter 14.

Before Jesus called him, Peter was a guy who fished for a living.  His life had changed dramatically after that call.  Now after leaving everything, Jesus was talking to Him about going back to heaven and leaving the disciples.  Anxiety filled his heart.  The disciples of Jesus were all young men.  Although they grew up in a different time, they were swimming in messages and propaganda just like us today. Which way was right? I can imagine questions like, “Jesus, why are you leaving us here alone is this confusing and crazy world?”  Or “I thought I was supposed to follow YOU?!  Now you're leaving us?  They must have felt abandoned.  I would have responded just like Thomas.  “Lord, what are you talking about?  I don’t know how to get to heaven!” 

Jesus shows real care and guidance for his disciples though.  He knows our hearts can get incredibly confused.  He first reassures them.  "Don't let your hearts be troubled.  Trust in God, and trust also in me."  Secondly, he gives them hope of His return;  "When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am."  And thirdly, he gives them God given instructions based on His Divine identity.  "I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one can come to the Father except through me."

Jesus answers the deepest questions humankind has explored for all of history.  Is there a God? Who is He? How can we know Him and live forever? Like a troubled young man or woman in a dark room hearing a million different voices and not knowing who or what to follow; Jesus boldly claims that He is the only true way to know and be with God. Trust in Him and don’t go on living with a confused and troubled heart.

Do you believe Jesus is the way, truth and life? Have you put your trust in Him?