We humans always search for some sense of identity, security, and meaning in our harried and hurried lives. Some seek meaning in various philosophies, ecstatic experiences, or principles for successful living. Some find security in acquiring great wealth or power or both. Many look within themselves to discern their “true identity.”

Such searching is a First Commandment matter. Martin Luther asked, “What is God?” and gave this answer: “A god means that from which we are to expect all good and to which we are to take refuge in all distress … That now, I say that upon which you set your heart and put your trust is properly your god” (Large Catechism, I:1-3).

As we journey through Holy Week and soon celebrate the joys of Easter, we see that God has graciously provided the very identity, security, and meaning we so desperately seek. We echo the request of the Greeks in John 12:21, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.”

The Greeks may have merely sought a literal introduction to Him, but Jesus gave us so much more. Our Lord used their request to point us to the true source of our identity, security, and meaning, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit” (John 12:23b–24 ESV).

If you want genuine identity, security, and meaning, look to Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb. 12:2b ESV). His cross-won forgiveness restores us to our identity as God’s beloved children. We rest secure in His grace and mercy. We are given the lifelong purpose of confessing and praising Him.

In Baptism, Jesus’ death and resurrection are now ours. In the Gospel proclaimed, we hear how Jesus, once lifted on the cross, has lifted us out of our sin. In His Supper, we lose our life and gain the life of Christ for us.

Jesus is the “grain of wheat that falls into the earth and dies.” After He died, He rose again and even now “bears much fruit” (John 12:24) in bringing you to faith in Him and giving you sure and certain identity, security, and meaning … in Him.

Here might I stay and sing,
      No story so divine!
Never was love, dear King,
      Never was grief like Thine.
This is my friend,
      In whose sweet praise
      I all my days
Could gladly spend! (Lutheran Service Book, 430:7)

In Christ’s service,

Rev. Randy K. Asburry
Second Vice President, Missouri District