In the Gospel of John, Jesus identifies Himself with seven “I AM” statements: I am the Bread of Life; I am the Light of the World; I am the Door; I am the Good Shepherd; I am the Resurrection and the Life; I am the Way and the Truth and the Life; and I am the Vine. Let’s look at them.

While Jesus often fed thousands of people in miraculous ways, “I am the Bread of Life” means more than human sustenance. Jesus is saying that He alone can sustain us, and we find salvation only in His Word. Jesus’ saying “I am the Light of the World,” is perfect for a world that exists in darkness. Only Jesus can provide the light. For Jesus to say, “I am the Door” is a powerful reminder that the only way to enter our heavenly home is through Jesus. We all know the title “I am the Good Shepherd.” Jesus reminds us often how he cares for His sheep, and we know He will leave the many behind, in order to find the one who has gone astray. “I am the Resurrection and the Life” is the ultimate of what Jesus came to teach us, that only with Him can we have life on earth, as well as life in heaven. And “I am the Vine” reminds us that we are the branches that cling to that vine for our very life. Without Him…without this understanding…we cannot exist. Believe…and remember!