Every one like to have a peaceful life. As far as I perceive, the main point for a peaceful life is to have a thorough and convictional “philosophy of life”. Don’t be bothered about the “philosophy” it simply means “way”.
Jesus considers his apostles even after his resurrection as normal humans. And he knew that there are and will be enough situations of rethinking and weakening on their faith and way of life. Taking in to consideration of the possible future failures, Jesus asserts the message: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me.”
Jesus knew the coming days of “troubles” for his followers. Not only in from the political heads but also from other religions. He might also have realized the later troubles of his Church, even today.
Jesus is trying to console and deepen their faith. He says, Have faith in God; have faith in me. The double exhortation to be faithful to the given faith, is also the symbol of the double assurance his divine assistance.
Jesus’ teachings were also not that simple for the simple folks from Galilee.
Even the answers to Philip and Thomas are little bit confusing.
To the question on the “Way” by Thomas, Jesus answers, “I am the way and the truth and the life”. Was it more confusing to Thomas?
I think the same happens to Philip: he asks for the “Father”. “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'” this reply must have totally disturbed the simple Jews. Then how it is possible to view another person, and it is GOD the FATHER, in Jesus, who is so young and human? The same confusion of many other Jews, is felt in this passage too.
Jesus knew that his teachings are confusing and not simple to be explained word by word. His messages have another level of Meaning.
Those who grows to this sphere, can understand the words and life of Jesus.
Actually that was the issue of many at that time. People heard only what is said. They looked for the meaning of the spoken words and their logic. Many were unable to ponder in to the divine deep message of Jesus’ life and words.
Now Jesus tries to give an answer to all the questions of the apostles. It is the one and only answer and solution to this world. The answer is “.Jesus”.
It is the message to the question of Thomas; and it is the same to Philip.
Jesus is the way, truth and the light: He is one with Father in Heaven. He is answer to the whole questions of the world.
He solves our doubts. His life is the solution to us.
With this “unique answer / solution” the troubles are solved.
Yes, Jesus is the answer for our world:
He is the answer for peace.
He is the solution for poverty.
He is the solution for love and humanity.
Yes, all our questions are solved in Jesus- in his life and words.
He is inviting his followers to follow his way at first- then the whole world -to this truth and to this light.
Let us recognize the ever-living message of Jesus.
Let the world recognize the solution in and of Jesus.
May God bless us all. Amen!
-
Fr Thomas Kalathil
No comments:
Post a Comment