One of our times most enduring images of Jesus comes from the poem, Footprints, in which, Jesus is so near to us that when we can no longer advance, he carries us in his arms. In contrast to this image, the people of the Middle Ages build lofty cathedrals, impressive and awe-inspiring edifices to celebrate the grandeur and majesty of Jesus. Historically, Christ was depicted on a throne or radiant in glory. So which is more accurate? Jesus as the down-to-earth, caring friend who wants to nothing more than to be with us or Jesus as the exalted and majestic ruler? Of course, the response is both are accurate. Our contemporary generation finds Jesus, the close friend, as more desirable than Jesus, the reigning King.

Herein lies the danger: Every generation shapes Jesus into their own understanding and culturally accepted image. John’s warning to “guard yourselves from idols” (I Jn. 5:21) didn’t necessarily mean the idols made of wood or clay, but the idols of the heart. In our postmodern world, our tendency is to portray Jesus as the immanent God, the one is near, our friend. And he is indeed. However, this need not come at the expense of Jesus as regal Lord, someone not to be trifle with.

When Jesus is merely our friend, one could say, “I know this isn’t what God wants, but…Jesus wants me to be happy, he’s my buddy.” I’ve actually heard someone say, “God wouldn’t want me to do what I don’t feel good about.” Really? We live in a time in which relationships are paramount. Yet, does one require a relationship with the king in order to respond to his decrees? Jesus stated, “Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father and I too will love him and show myself to him.” (Jn 14:21) Perhaps, our generation needs reminding that when we honour Christ as Lord in obedience (an unpopular concept), he reveals himself to us as friend. Jesus is rightly friend and King, one who desires not just our happiness but our holiness, one who is near and who is worthy.