Feast of Saints Philip and James, Apostles
Scripture:
1 Corinthians 15:1-8
John 14:6-14
Reflection:
One of the simplest yet profound summaries of Jesus—summarising his being, mission, and relationship to us—is his statement, “I am the way and the truth and the life.”
To this, we might also add those words that shine light on the mystery of Trinitarian life and express – within the limit of words – our own relationship both with and within God. “No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”
Philip might speak for all of us in his seeking to know ‘more’ of this mystery, but is left to contemplate the truth at its most mysterious depth. “Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me”
Faith does seek understanding, but it can stand in the company of the unknown, too.
As we grow in life, not just in terms of years and experience, but also in one’s depth of faith, what is not understood doesn’t hold such power over us, and so often certainty diminishes whilst the unknown increases. For any follower of the Way, but perhaps more so for older disciples, gentle uncertainty becomes a fond companion – life goes on, we grow calmer in the face of change and mystery, and our witness ironically can become more powerful in the absence of rational explanation.
Such is the life of the disciples who ‘know’ Jesus.
Fr. Denis Travers, C.P., is the Provincial Superior of Holy Spirit Province, Australia.