Because of this many of his disciples
turned back and no longer went about with him.
So Jesus asked the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?”
—John 6.66-67
I love this little glimpse of Jesus,
for the moment not testing the disciples,
not handing out difficult teachings,
but wanting friends, hoping not to be alone.
To “go away” is not just to fail at faith,
or disagree with his theology;
it’s to leave him companionless.
The human Jesus, right on the edge of his own hurt.
For all the love that flowed,
his was still the loneliest job.
Maybe what Jesus most wants is not your religiosity,
not your fervent prayers, or your profound faith,
but just you. Your company.
Your willingness to be with him.
Maybe he doesn’t want your piety.
He just likes having you around.
Imagine that as joyful as the father is
to receive the prodigal son,
the Beloved is that happy to have you.
Maybe even a little sad without you.
You don’t have to do anything heroic.
Just keep him company.
I tell you, there are times
he will want that more than anything.
__________________
Steve Garnaas-Holmes
Unfolding Light
www.unfoldinglight.net
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