Who are you?
by Colleen Fitzpatrick
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
They said to him, ‘Who are you?’ Jesus said to them, ‘Why do I speak to you at all?’ (John 8:25).
Wow! Imagine asking Jesus, ‘Who are you?’ and then hearing his response, ‘Why do I speak to you at all?’
I have been wondering what Jesus’ tone of voice would be. I think about the times that our children or grandchildren ask questions that seem to have obvious answers, such as Miss 4-Year-Old having a tantrum on Christmas Eve and asking why no-one had told her it was nearly Christmas. To be honest, that one caused us to burst out laughing. But Jesus seems to be far from amused. His audience just didn’t get it – they didn’t understand who he was or why he was there, let alone why he would be going away.
Let’s think about the text from the point of view of the Jews. They had been taught that the Messiah was coming, and now that Jesus has arrived, he has the task of convincing them that he is the Promised One – the Messiah. I’m guessing that would not be easy. Particularly given that he didn’t come in glory, but as a carpenter, part of an ordinary family from a humble village.
Jesus says that by questioning him, the people are also questioning the One who sent him. The situation ends happily. Jesus convinces people that he is the Son of the Father, and he takes joy in pleasing his Father.
Fast forward to today. Many have heard about Jesus but would not know who he is or have turned away from that knowledge. Our challenge as Christians is to share our knowledge of Jesus so that others may learn about his saving grace. By doing that, we are doing what is pleasing to God – and to Jesus.
Dear Jesus, help us clearly know who you are and share that good news with our friends and family. May the Holy Spirit give us the words and the wisdom to know what to say and when to say it and use each of us so that all may know you. Amen.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.
