King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’s name had become known. Some were saying, “John the baptizer has been raised from the dead, and for this reason, these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”
(Mark 6:14-16)

Mark 6:14-29

This week’s Gospel reading is one that, if it were not in the lectionary, I would probably avoid. But this is the very reason I love preaching and reading from the prescribed lectionary texts. They challenge us to confront passages of scripture that we usually avoid and discover hidden gems of Gospel truths within them. I hope we will discover this as we journey through this interesting story this week. 

Jesus has been performing miracles and teaching with authority. He is gaining popularity, and rumours are beginning to spread about who he really is. Some think he is John the Baptist, some say he is the prophet Elijah, and others say he is a prophet “like the prophets of old.” 

A similar story is found in Matthew’s Gospel (16:13-20), where Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is. They respond by saying, “Some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah and some say Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” Jesus then asks them more directly: “Who do YOU say that I am?”

It appears that people who met Jesus struggled with who he was in the grand scheme of things. They realised there was something special about him, but they could not quite put their fingers on what it was. We are faced with a similar dilemma today. We all need to answer the question, “Who is Jesus?” For some, he is a wise spiritual teacher; for others, he is a strict judge; and for others, he is a magic genie, ready to grant wishes when needed. 

Our image of God heavily influences the strength and authenticity of our relationship with God. If we have acquired unhealthy images of God that have become obstacles in our relationship with God, we need to work at dismantling these and seek God’s guidance in helping us form good, healthy images that lead us to greater faith, hope, love, and connection to God. 

How would you respond to Jesus’ question: “Who do you say that I am?” 

What is your default image of God? 

Are you aware of any unhelpful and helpful images of God that you hold within you?

Reflections by Rev Joe Taylor

Loving God, 
Thank you for sending Jesus to guide, teach, and save us. 
We know that those who understand Jesus understand the Father. Help me to formulate a healthy understanding of Jesus so that, in turn, I can nurture a healthy image of God.
Amen.

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