I believe this verse from John is one example that shows Jesus understands his role as the conduit through which we find God. Jesus delivers God’s word and message of salvation through his teachings and actions. And he reminds his listeners that they are about God and not himself. So who should we focus our worship on, who should we pray to – God or Jesus?
If God was only concerned with delivering the message of salvation and grace, he could have simply inspired a prophet as He had many times in the past. Instead, He sent his Son. I believe God sent Jesus among us knowing fair well that Jesus will be worshiped as his equal because people can relate to a person in flesh more readily than a concept based on faith alone. But Jesus did not forget who the ultimate deity was. Jesus does not chastise us for worshiping him but reminds us that he is the channel through which we find God.
We give thanks to Jesus and praise him for that reason. We give thanks to God for deeming us worthy of receiving salvation through Jesus. I believe the answer to my earlier question is: Both are worthy of our worship and there is no conflict in doing so.
Join us for midweek Lenten supper and worship on Wednesday (TONIGHT). Soup supper at 6:15 and worship at 7. This week, we will encounter a reflection called "Freedom." Then, join us for Palm Sunday at 8:30 and 11. Full calendar is available at http://www.allsaintspalatine.org
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