Who is Jesus?

(This is my homework for the weekly Bible study that I am attending.)

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippia, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”…

Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Matthew 16:13, 16 (NIV)

Who is Jesus? As a believing Christian with 2000 years of Hindsight the answer seems like a no-brainer: He is the Messiah. Peter’s answer comes without the hindsight. It comes from his heart by the power of God. I know that because Jesus said so.

What is my heart answer to the question: Who is Jesus?

Jesus is my look into my Father. He says He and the Father are one. (John 10:30) When I read Jesus’ words, see what He does, and feel His compassion and love, (and discipline!) I am able to know the Father more. Jesus atoned for my sins and so bridged the gap between my sinfulness and God’s holiness. Jesus continues to bring the Father and me together.

Jesus is also the best friend and love that I have. He is always there. 24/7. He always has His ears tuned to my voice. He always knows when I need Him and for what I need Him. He is never too busy or distracted by “stuff”. I am never alone. Jesus is the Alpha and Omega. (Revelation 22:13)

Finally, Jesus is the Messiah; the son of the LIVING God. I am a simple, pragmatic woman so the first two bring me to the third. In this difficult, suffering world, it is the third that brings me hope for each day. Jesus is LIVING and active in my life. It is a daily relationship that grows and, hopefully, matures. He is the Savior.

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.

Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:5-8 (NIV)