Jesus had a way of asking difficult questions. They were not difficult in the way an exam question might be, nor were they challenging in the way a hard trivia question is. Jesus’ questions were rarely looking only for information, rather he was probing for understanding. Jesus did not just ask, “what do you know?” He asked, “how is what you know becoming revelation to you?”

In one of his more challenging questions, Jesus asked his disciples, “But what about you? Who do you say that I am?” (Mark 8:29) It was a very pointed question and Jesus was not looking for them to parrot back what he previously told them. He wanted to know who they truly believed he was, because that belief would shape their future understanding and their actions. Their beliefs about Jesus would affect their relationship with Jesus, and that would make all the difference.

The question was not just for the disciples. It is an important question for the followers of Christ today as well. How we answer the question, “Who is Jesus?” will affect our relationship with him and with his Gospel. In turn, it will shape our journey of faith, our ministry with others and ultimately, our destiny.

Last Sunday, our Minister of College Ministries preached a sermon on this question and I continue to reflect on it. Who do I really believe Jesus is? The issue is not what did my parents teach me to believe, nor is it what was I told in Sunday School or even seminary. The question is, who has the Holy Spirit revealed Jesus Christ to be through the Scripture and through my relationship with him.

In response, I could simply quote a creed, or offer up the “official” answer to the question and, while these would be fine and meaningful responses. I would like to offer my response from another source of ancient words that speaks volumes. In this simple, yet profound Celtic prayer is a declaration of who Jesus is that resonates deeply in me. It does not replace the classical response that, “Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” Instead, it builds on this truth and gives room to ponder the greatness of Christ in every facet of our lives. May these words bless you as they continue to bless me.

You are the peace of all things calm
You are the place to hide from harm
You are the light that shines in dark
You are the heart’s eternal spark
You are the door that’s open wide
You are the guest who waits inside
You are the stranger at the door
You are the calling of the poor
You are my Lord and with me from ill
You are the light, the truth, the way
You are my Saviour this very day.

Celtic oral tradition – 1st millennium