Saints Philip and James, Apostles (Feast)
No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6)
When you’re applying for a job at a large company, it’s pretty certain that you will have to deal with the human resources department. It can seem like a pretty ruthless process. There are hundreds of résumés to go through, so unless yours really stands out, it will likely get tossed out immediately. If you’re lucky enough to make the cut, then you have to compete with the other top candidates. If you were to survive all that, you would definitely be feeling blessed!
When we hear Jesus saying, “No one comes to the Father except through me,” we may be tempted to think he is like that human resources manager (John 14:6). We picture him standing with his arms crossed, weeding out those who don’t have what it takes to get to heaven. But look at Philip, one of the saints whose feast we celebrate today. He didn’t get everything right away. He didn’t understand how Jesus was going to feed five thousand people with just a little bread and a couple of fish. And in today’s passage, he asks Jesus to show him the Father—after having spent three years hearing him talk about his Father!
It’s a good thing for Philip—and for us—that we don’t have to qualify for a position to follow the Lord. You’re family, not an employee! Instead of standing with his arms closed, Jesus has them opened wide. He is always happy to embrace us and bring us to his Father.
Do you worry sometimes that God might reject you or that he might pass you by because you’re not good enough? Then today’s passage is for you! Do you worry that you haven’t done enough to win his approval or to merit heaven? This passage is for you as well. Jesus is the way, not your hard work. It’s true that no one comes to the Father except through him. But it’s also true that he brings everyone to the Father who comes to him. He excludes no one. Not Philip. Not James. And certainly not you!
“Thank you, Jesus, for offering to bring me to the Father. Here I am, Lord. Let me know his presence and his love.”
1 Corinthians 15:1-8
Psalm 19:2-5
Daily Marriage Tip for May 3, 2016:
Plan a “field trip” for the family! It can be educational, or take advantage of the early spring deals to theme parks and other fun places