And He continued by questioning them, “But who do you say that I am?”

Mark 8

This question addressed to Jesus’ intimate followers, is a question for each of us to ponder.  If we have a relationship with Jesus, then we must have an image or a sense of His identity.

“But who do you say that I am?”

Do we say who Jesus is?  Can we even begin to utter or describe to ourselves, let alone someone else, who Jesus is for us?

When I was praying through the Ignatian exercises, this question emerged.  This is no question with a qualifying, perhaps or maybe.  This question sears into the heart of the Christ relationship and requires a response.

And the response?  After much spluttering and silence, I was able to make this answer-

“You are the One I love.”

“But who do you say that I am?”

Whatever the answer we make, including no answer, we will have set our feet upon a new pathway.

My answer has required more prayer and more diligent discernment of the pathway of love.

Love is an act of the will.  It is new behavior.  It is an orientation toward the Beloved like magnetic north.  Wherever I am my compass points north and my heart yearns to make my feet go that direction.

Doesn’t always mean I follow my desires, but I certainly do feel them!

“But who do you say that I am?”

Each of us will answer this question in our own way, from our own hearts.  And the answer will change from year to year.

Engage with the question.

Imagine that Jesus is with you right now, looking upon you, and saying to you in His own beautiful way:

“But who do you say that I am?”