Editorial February 6, 1915 Issue

"We would see Jesus"

Annie M. Knott

The twelfth chapter of John's gospel is of the most intense interest to students of Christian Science. The events recorded follow close upon the raising of Lazarus, although in the preceding chapter we read that the rulers declared Jesus should be put to death, before his influence extended any farther. In spite of this, the sisters of Lazarus gave a supper in honor of their brother's deliverer, and to this they invited some of their fellow townsmen, who doubtless came eagerly to see the one who had been four days in the grave. They were probably not aware that the priests were even then conspiring to put Lazarus to death, as well as Jesus.

We are told that at this supper Mary poured upon Jesus' feet a perfumed ointment which, according to some writers of that time, was worth a king's ransom; but even this she doubtless felt would be but a small token of love and gratitude for all that he had brought to their home. The next day, as the Master and his disciples were on their way to Jerusalem, the crowds that were going up to the Passover, and who had heard of the raising of Lazarus, went out to meet Jesus with palm branches and loud hosannas. We also read that those who had witnessed the raising of Lazarus "bore record" on this glad occasion, while a low murmur went out from the ranks of superstition and envy, "Behold, the world is gone after him." We next read that following the triumphal entry into Jerusalem the eager, inquiring Greek mind led certain of that nation to seek an interview with the one who had broken the age-long tyranny of the tomb. These men came to Philip and said, "Sir, we would see Jesus."

We are not told that any deep personal need impelled this quest, nor do we gather from the record any hint as to whether their request was granted, but their words have been echoing down the centuries, whenever and wherever professed Christians have been in deep distress that no human power could relieve. Alas that the words, "We would see Jesus," should so often have implied a belief that the help given so freely by Christ Jesus is no longer available; that there is no one now who can say, as in the case of the blind man, "Be of good comfort, rise; he calleth thee." It would almost seem as if the cruel edict of the rulers of that early day held sway even over those who called themselves followers of the Nazarene Prophet, that in time of sickness and sorrow they should forget his words, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world;" also his message to his sorrowing disciples, "I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God."

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

Among the Churches