This is an odd scene, to say the least. Jesus has just entered Jerusalem, and the Jews have worshipped and received their king. Ironically, within a few days the crowds will declare, “We have no king but Caesar” – Jesus was not the king they expected. At this moment, the shadow of the cross looms close-by.

With this as background, John tells of two “Greeks” who have come to Worship at Passover. They have heard of Jesus, and now they want to see Him, so they find Phillip and request an audience.

Jesus’ reaction to this is curious and difficult. I don’t know whether it is what Phillip expected – it certainly isn’t what we expect. Jesus essentially brushes off the request. Instead of rushing out to meet with this contingent, Jesus explains that His death will bring life ... and the time has come for His death. It seems like a random answer to a straight-forward request.

Remember, though, that Jesus repeatedly preached that He came first for the Jews, then for the Gentiles. He came to His own, but they didn’t receive Him. Because of the cross, however, everyone, whether Jew or Greek, can have access to God 24/7. I almost get the feeing that Jesus is saying, “Almost. The door is about to open. Everything is changing. Just a little longer.”

Jesus’ “teaching moment” aside, I am struck by the request of these Greeks, made to Phillip. “We would see Jesus.” Show us Jesus. Introduce us to his great man. I would not be long until that request was the driving force in Phillip’s life, as it is in mine, and hopefully as it is in yours. We exist to introduce Jesus to those who would meet Him.

Has it ever occurred to you that you represent Jesus Christ 24/7 before an unbelieving world? The world is watching. What does our representation of Christ say to the world about the things we say we believe? Do they know us more for our political affiliations and our sports preferences then for our Savior? Do they know us more for what we are against than what we are for? Are we a bad, mediocre, or good “advertisement” for Jesus? Are we helping people see who he really is and what he is really like?

After all – the cross has open the door for everyone to see Jesus.