I was very fortunate to grow up in a home and a church full of strong Christians who were quick to make sure I didn’t stray from God’s path. One of the most important was my pastor for the first 24 years of my life (this was a Presbyterian church). Dr. W.C. “Pete” Neill was a slight, studious man – I did not learn until after his death that he had been a champion wrestler in high school and a U.S. Navy officer on a combat ship during World War II – he was never what you’d call a passionate preacher. What he was really good at was modeling righteous living. In his quiet way, he was a role model for all of us. In this scripture, Jesus is preparing his disciples for his coming arrest and death with some of his most important teachings about the Kingdom of God when Philip interrupts, saying “show us the Father and we’ll be satisfied.” You can almost feel Jesus’ shoulders slump in disappointment. These clueless guys just don’t get it. They’ve had the Father there with them for many months and they just don’t understand. Jesus’ words and deeds have been showing them the Father all along. Dr. Neill knew how to “show us the Father” every day, simply by being a Godly man. I’ve tried to follow his example ever since.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, you gave us the ultimate role model in sending your Son to live among us on Earth, and we are thankful. Help us to understand that by loving you and loving our neighbors we fulfill the greatest commandments. Help us to know that the life we lead can be a model for others, those who watch us to see if our actions match our Christian beliefs. And help us to lead a more Christ-like life. Amen
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