A couple of weeks ago we experienced a solar eclipse. While I was interested in the actual eclipse, I found myself more intrigued by the hoopla surrounding this event. Hundreds of thousands of people traveled near and far to watch this rare celestial occurrence. Cities had to declare states of emergency to handle the hordes of people wanting to watch the brief, but captivating display of shadow and light. People rushed to witness this rare appearance as it inspired wonder and awe, capturing both the heart and the mind. 

As the eclipse demonstrates we humans have a profound desire to see, to bear witness. It isn’t that we are all a bunch of cynics, but it is much easier to understand, to trust, to believe when we see something with our own two eyes. In today’s gospel that is what Phillip was asking for from Jesus. I don’t think he was asking because he didn’t believe, but because it would make it easier if he had solid evidence in front of him. He was struggling to understand how Jesus and God worked. One of the biggest mysteries in the life of Jesus is his relationship with his Father and the Holy Spirit. They are 'I' to each other, but how can three be one? So Phillip asked for some proof, some evidence. (I don’t know about those of you reading this, but I can certainly relate to Phillip in this passage). 

Then Jesus does what we can count on him to do. He points out the good news, that what Phillip had been given was sufficient. He needed only to let his experience sink in. If we love and experience Jesus, we have what we need. Because we in turn have God and the Holy Spirit. 

Ours is a faith rooted in action. And Jesus reminds us of this. When we do good works, we develop a deeper closeness with the Holy Trinity. When we act in Jesus' name we are drawn into a more trusting and loving relationship. The Holy Trinity reveals itself in these acts. It reminds me of a quote from the author Anne Lamott, “Yesterday’s faith does not wait for you like a dog with your slippers and the morning paper in its mouth. You seek it, and in seeking it, you find it.” 

Today, let’s pray that our hearts and minds be captured by the Holy Trinity’s presence in our lives. Let the awe and wonder of this love inspire us to serve those around us, creating a community of people who can see and feel God's presence in our lives.