Sermonette: Oct. 25, 2021

Human beings are created for relationships. We need touch, a place to belong, and to be loved. There is no doubt that modern psychology has claimed this, as well as each of the world’s religions/philosophies. It’s such a basic truth for every person, it almost seems silly to claim, yet profound to admit.

Loving and healthy relationships are where you can be yourself, which also always includes your darkest side.

The gospel of John includes many encounters of Jesus with a variety of people: insiders, outsiders, outcasts, religious leaders, skeptics, etc. Nathaniel (John 1:46) is a skeptic, and asks his friend Philip, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip’s response sums up human relationships in three words: “Come and see.”

As we long for connection, we too say, “Come and see!” Come and see my Facebook page. Come and see the gifts I have. Come and see all my accomplishments. Come and see that I’m hurting, that I need you to listen, that I need you to love me no matter what.

Humanity’s natural inclination is not to come and see. Mankind chooses to run from pain, to turn away from the uncomfortable, to ignore cries for help: they’re just too, well, painful. And pain makes us cynical and mistrusting. Jesus walked right into pain, to align himself with those humans who’d prefer to turn from it, to “be with” humans in every sense, to show them unconditional love.

Jesus sees Nathaniel for who he is, as He does each of us. Jesus created you, gives you the gifts you have, and appreciates when you share them. Jesus comes alongside you, sees you with perfect clarity, knows your gifts and struggles, appreciates your honesty, and will always be honest with you. Honest that the path is difficult, but real connection is necessary. Amen.