In the earliest days of Christianity - before the official Church was established - those who followed Jesus - the earliest disciples - did not identify themselves as Christians. They were Jews - Jews when Jesus called them by name to follow Him - Jews in their observance of Jewish laws - customs - Jews after the crucifixion. It was not until later - after Jesus' death - that they were challenged by authorities to define just who they were - Jews or some new cult. As Christ followers they were still Jews and as such bound by Jewish laws. In an effort to honor Jesus' words at the Last Supper - they had to find another time - place - where they could - "do this in memory of me". At first they attended Shabbat - the recognized Jewish time and place of worship of God on Saturday. Adding the commemoration of the Last Supper - moved onto Sunday - to avoid conflict with existing Jewish law. For a time - they attended both services - eventually leaving Shabbat - attending only the developing service worshiping God trough Jesus' teachings. This new worship - still not labeled as Christianity - became known as the - Way. Initially because of extreme persecution - a new cult - not an established religion - an underground movement. Those seeking to learn - attend services - under whispered breath - asked how - where - was The Way.
In today's Holy Scripture - Jesus once again - tells His disciples that He is The Way. Simple enough - hard enough to comprehend - understand fully - just what that meant - still means to us today. Jesus told His disciples - no one could come to the Father without first coming to Him - The Christ. Plain and simple - no alternatives. Many seek Him - not all find Him. Distracted by worldly concerns - money - material possessions. For those who seek earnestly - He is there waiting - silently - for them - you - to accept Him as the Lord of your life. Today would be a good day to do that - say yes to Jesus - make mom proud.
Deacon Dale
In today's Holy Scripture - Jesus once again - tells His disciples that He is The Way. Simple enough - hard enough to comprehend - understand fully - just what that meant - still means to us today. Jesus told His disciples - no one could come to the Father without first coming to Him - The Christ. Plain and simple - no alternatives. Many seek Him - not all find Him. Distracted by worldly concerns - money - material possessions. For those who seek earnestly - He is there waiting - silently - for them - you - to accept Him as the Lord of your life. Today would be a good day to do that - say yes to Jesus - make mom proud.
Deacon Dale
