History’s most significant man comes into focus again

Jesus as depicted in 1st century catacombs

Today is Easter Sunday one of the holiest days for Christians. For the billion plus people who profess the Christian religion it is a day of reverence or at least remembrance.

Our image of Jesus is personal yet his importance is universal. Historian, cynic and Christian Paul Johnston says “all really good things we believe in the modern world – equality of individuals, care for the powerless, even respect for nature – can be traced directly to his teachings.” Jesus: A Biography, from a Believer

Even non-believers would agree with some of what Johnston says. Muslims for instance while holding Mohammad as divine respect Jesus and his teachings.

Jesus also taught us that there is good and evil although it is politically incorrect to express that.

Many people feel perfectly comfortable in expressing their belief in Jesus and his divinity. Others find the topic embarrassing and still others one of derision.

I admit I believe in Jesus. I was brought up reading the Bible and have no qualms about believing in God, Jesus and miracles. I don’t go to church much but that doesn’t stop me from believing.

Last night I was channel surfing and the Ten Commandments was playing on two channels. I saw the movie twice the week it was released in 1956 and dozens of times since. I wasn’t in the mood last night for 3.5 hours of Cecil B. DeMille dancing maidens and over blown drama.

However, I got lucky and happened on the scene where Moses goes up to Mount Sinai to meet God. It shook me to my inner soul to watch that scene again. “Moses take off the sandals from your feet for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” After God gives Moses a lesson in divinity, he tells Moses –

אהיה אשר אהיה pronounced Ehyeh asher ehyeh

I am that I am

Moses felt the power of God in the burning bush, in his words and in the power of that simple statement – I am.

There have been thousands of biographies written about Jesus. None of them are as interesting to read or as valuable as the 4 Gospels in my opinion.  The words still resonate inside my head like God’s statement to Moses – “I am that I am.”  Jesus knew who he was without equivocation or apology.

Have a Happy Easter.