The Courage to Ask

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” – John 14:6 (NIV)

Questions can feel risky. Whether in a classroom, a sanctuary, or a moment of quiet prayer, asking can expose our uncertainty. We fear sounding foolish or revealing what we don’t yet grasp. But in John 14, we witness two disciples—Thomas and Philip—who dared to ask. Their questions weren’t polished or theologically precise. They were honest. And Jesus didn’t rebuke them. He answered.

Thomas asks, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” (v.5). Philip follows with, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us” (v.8). These aren’t the questions of skeptics—they’re the questions of followers who’ve walked with Jesus for years, seen miracles, heard sermons, and yet still longed for clarity. 

Jesus responds not with frustration or impatience but with revelation: “I am the way and the truth and the life.” In His response, He doesn’t just point to the Father—He embodies the path to Him.

Later, to Philip, Jesus gently says, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (v.9). Jesus’ answers are layered, rich, and deeply relational. They reveal not only who He is, but how patient He is with our process of understanding.

We all have moments when we hesitate to ask—worried our question is too basic, too late, or too revealing. But Jesus welcomes our seeking. He honors the courage to ask again. Faith isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about trusting the One who does. Like Thomas and Philip, we’re invited to bring our questions to Jesus—not just once, but as often as needed. There is grace in repetition. There is growth in perseverance.

 Lord Jesus, thank You for being the way, the truth, and the life. Thank You for receiving our questions with patience and love. Help us to seek You boldly, even when we feel uncertain. Teach us to trust that in knowing You, we are drawn closer to the Father. Give us courage to ask, clarity to understand, and faith to follow. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim