John 14:1-14 Dear Partner in Preaching, Tucked into the middle of the passage from John appointed for this 5th Sunday of Easter – yes, it really is Easter even though the RCL has dragged us back to Maundy Thursday in the narrative – tucked into to the middle of this passage are some of the most memorable, even iconic verses from the Fourth Gospel: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” “In my Father’s house there are many rooms.” “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” And “If in my name you ask for anything, I will do it.” Each of these could be a sermon in and of itself, often wrestling with some of...

John 14:1-14 Dear Partner in Preaching, The first line of this familiar passage is so out of kilter with the rest of the passage that it’s almost comical. But if so, it is a poignant, ironic, almost sorrowful humor. Jesus, after all, is preparing his disciples, his friends, for his departure. He knows this will be incredibly challenging for them and so begins with words intended to bring comfort – “do not let your hearts be troubled” – but that seem to fall short of the mark. The disciples’ hearts are troubled, very troubled. And so they ask questions. Have you ever noticed that? That when we are struggling to make sense of...

Dear Partner in Preaching, Come and see. Think, for a moment, about the effect of those words might have on you were you to hear them in an everyday context. Would they generate a certain sense of excitement about whatever it might be you were being invited to witness? Perhaps curiosity? Or maybe gratitude that someone thought to include you? Come and see. The words are both simple and warm, issuing an invitation not only to see something, but also to join a community. To come along and be part of something. Come and see. These words, this invitation, form the heart not simply of this opening scene but much of John’s Gospel. John’s story...