You know the way

You know the way to the place where I am going. –John 14:4 (NIV)

Thomas wasn't tracking yet: "What do you mean we know the way? We don't even know where you're going!" So Jesus explained: "I am the way...." or rather, “I AM The Way.” The apostles were beginning to understand what Jesus had been telling them for months with ever-increasing clarity – He would soon be leaving. They were troubled by the thought.

Jesus wanted to re-assure them. “You can’t come with me now. I’ll be getting the place ready for you and I’ll be back to pick you up later.” They heard His words, but the concept of Him leaving, much less dying, was beyond their grasp. This would be the case until the resurrection.

In hindsight, it’s easier for us to see. Jesus would die, but that would not be the end of the story – not by a long shot. Follow Him. He is trustworthy. He gives life. Go where He went. Do what He did. Allow His Spirit to rule. That said, I still sometimes find myself in Thomas’ sandals, wishing for just a little more clarity….

I love the Old Testament heroes. Some were prepared, some not so much. Some were eager, many were reluctant. All called to tasks that were obviously bigger than they were, so their obedience required complete dependence on God. Those stories are inspiring, instructional, exemplary. Those people followed clear instruction from God. They knew the way. But they are not the only characters in Scripture.

My chronological journey through the Bible in 2022 had me in the opening chapters of 1 Chronicles this week. You know what’s in there? Lists. Name after name after name of genealogies that summarize the lineage of the Jewish people from Adam to the return from exile. I recognized a few names, but for the most part, those people are unknown to me. Sprinkled in, I found a couple statements similar to this one:

All these were descendants of Asher—heads of families, choice men, brave warriors and outstanding leaders. –1Chronicles 7:40a (NIV)

You know what that means? All those “unknown” names were known to God. Regardless of how well or how poorly they carried out their assignments, they all had a role in the history of God’s people. They may have only been “bit parts”, but their lives mattered. The “director” decided that “man in ball cap drinking coffee” needed to be part of the movie.

So throw out the fleece, watch for those burning bushes, and when the need arises, go fight those giants. But never underestimate the assignment you’re in today. When we know Jesus, we know the way, even when we don't yet know where we're going. Stay close to Him. Be faithful to what's in front of you right now. Take the next right step. It matters.

Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. –1Corinthians 10:31b (NIV)