Desire and Ways to See the Father

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Fouth Week :  Saturday*

*Gospel : Jn 14:7-14*

*First Reading : Acts 13:44-52*

*Responsorial Psalm:  98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4*

*Desire and Ways to See the  Father*

*1) A Human Desire for God*

Philip’s request is deeply human. It echoes the ancient longing to see God 

Moses once cried, “Show me your glory” (Exodus 33:18).

Job, amid his suffering, yearned for a face-to-face meeting with the Almighty (Job 23:3-5).

Philip’s words express the soul’s deepest desire to encounter Him in a way that satisfies all questions and doubts. 

This desire is not merely for signs or blessings, but for God Himself.

*2) Jesus as the Perfect Revelation of the Father*

Jesus says, that to see Him is to see the Father. 

He is the visible image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15). 

In Him, the fullness of God dwells bodily (Colossians 2:9).

This reflection invites us to contemplate the face of Christ—His words, actions, compassion, and self-giving love—as the clearest picture of the heart of the Father.

*3) Faith Beyond Sight*

Philip seems to want a vision, an experience, a moment of clarity. 

But Jesus redirects the request—not to a vision, but to faith:

“Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me.” (John 14:11)

Seeing the Father is not about mystical visions or extraordinary phenomena, but about believing in Jesus, trusting in His Word, and remaining in relationship with Him. 

It is through faith, not merely through sight, that we come to truly know God (Hebrews 11:1; John 20:29).

*4) Through the Word of God (Scripture)*

Scripture reveals the Father’s will, nature, and character. 

Jesus Himself constantly referred to Scripture to reveal who the Father is.

When we read the Bible, especially in light of Christ, we see the Father’s story of love and salvation unfold.

*5) Through the Holy Spirit*

The Holy Spirit works within us to make the Father known—not just intellectually, but experientially. 

The Spirit teaches, comforts, and opens our eyes to perceive God’s presence and love

*6) Through Creation*

Though creation does not reveal the Father as personally as Jesus does, it gives a visible witness to His power, majesty, order, and creativity 

*7) Through Love and Community*

The presence of the Father is made visible in acts of genuine love, especially within the community of believers. 

When Christians love as Christ loved, God becomes visible.

*8) Through the Poor, the Vulnerable, and the Marginalized*

*“Whatever you did for one of the least of these... you did for me.”* – Matthew 25:40

Serving the weak, the hungry, the lonely, and the broken is a way of encountering the Father’s heart. 

He is especially present where love meets need.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*