What’s Your Favourite Story About Jesus?

‘What’s your favourite story about Jesus?’ asked Reuben Williams (possibly the best question I have ever been asked in a Wetherspoons). I asked for clarification. He continued, ‘In the gospels we see Jesus doing and saying all sorts of things and having some incredible interactions with various people. Which one of these stories resonates with you the most now?’ Buying some time, I deflected and threw the question back at him. This was his answer:

Reuben’s favourite story — John 20:24-27

‘Now Thomas (also known as Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord!’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you!’ Then he said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.’

Reuben’s reflections — ‘Thomas wasn’t with the others when Jesus appeared the first time. And when he hears from the others he doubts and wants proof. And I love the idea that Jesus went back for Thomas. He went back for the one, and what’s more, the doubting one. He meets the demands of the doubter - that’s how much he loves us.’

Tim — Reuben’s question has lingered in my mind and I now often find myself asking others this same question. I love how it brings out the ‘personality’ of Jesus and his relatability to each one of us. Jesus is so multifaceted that you can apply the stories of Jesus to what he’s doing in your life right now. That’s why your favourite story probably changes as your circumstances change.

I have asked four students who are part of our GS Student community to answer: ‘What’s your favourite story about Jesus and why?’. Each day we will look at one of their responses and I pray that as we explore them, more of the beauty of Jesus is revealed to you, perhaps at the exact moment you need to be reminded of it.

Reflect — What’s your favourite story? Have a think about it and share the story with someone. Ask them what theirs is and why.