by Pastor Douglas Brauner

Jesus Is Your Way to the Father’s Heart

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

At the point where this sign is posted in Sondermann Park, I have three choices, three different trails that I can take. Each trail is unique; one trail wanders near a meandering stream, another through a canopy of trees, and the third on a well-worn trail.

However, all three trails lead to the same place. A hiker on each trail will have different experience, but arrive at the same destination.

It is common in the world to believe that all religions lead to the same place, that they are simply different paths to get to the same destination. The problem with this thinking is that it’s contrary to Jesus’ words to his disciples.

^“Jesus said to [Thomas], ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'”
John 14:6 English Standard Version

I have often spoken these words at funerals. They are connected to Jesus’ promise that he is preparing a place for us to dwell with the Father, his preparation that was accomplished for us in his life, death and resurrection. Taken out of this context, Jesus’ words might trouble us.

Yes, they speak of Jesus being the exclusive way to the Father, but they are meant to comfort us and assure us that we have a place with the Father. We can live without doubt that a dwelling place has been prepared for us because of Jesus. Living in relationship with him means that nothing can separate us from the love God our Father, nothing can come between us and his compassion.

You might not feel much comfort in your life. You might feel separated from the people you love. You might wonder how it is that God could love and forgive you. Hear Jesus’ words as though you are Thomas in that upper room with Jesus. Know that he is your way, your truth, and your life. Know that today is the day that Jesus opens the Father’s heart to you.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado