Reflection: I AM

Storm-tossed and far from shore … what an interminable night! Then, through the torrent, a shadow takes shape, swashing on the waves. “Don’t be afraid. I AM.” (Matthew 14:24-27)

No doubt, as Jesus and his gang later calmed down over coffee and croissants, they pondered Jesus’ power, wondered at his name, and maybe rehearsed this memory verse: 

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way …
though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. (Psalm 46:1-3)

More scandalously and publicly, on another occasion, Jesus claimed his name. Blasphemy! How dare he speak that name and make that claim, mortal that he is! The outraged Jewish crowd reached for rocks to annihilate him. 

“You are of this world; I am not of this world”, [said Jesus]. “… unless you believe that I AM who I AM you will die in your sins.”

So they said to him, “Who are you?” Jesus said to them, “Just what I have been telling you from the beginning.”

“Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”  (see John 8:23-25, and 8:58 from Exodus 34:6-7)

Prayer:

Merciful and gracious I AM, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, you’ve devotedly kept your covenant, forgiving the penitent and serving just punishment to generations with hearts of stone. Thank you for your Son, whose divine image we can relate to; whose mission has swept us up in grace, love and life worth-the-living. Around your world today, by your Word, your Spirit and theophanies, reveal yourself galore! Amen. 

For further reflection, watch Hebrews 1:1-4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ageaRJgKKPA 

If you wanna know what God is like, then look at the Son.

The Son is the imprint, The Son is the likeness, The Son is the radiance of God’s glory!