Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come
in to him and eat with him and he with me." The Jesus of these essays is not the serene figure of some holy pictures. No one can hear or see him and remain at a safe distance. He knocks, questions, challenges, heals, suffers, and urges a choice from everyone he touches. Above all, he invites his listeners in- to a friendship of passion and prayer. No one can watch from neutral ground, or even seek refuge in a simple nod of agreement. One must say yes or no to his invitation to walk along with him and "come and see" what he is about.
In these reflections, first published as Lenten meditations in America magazine, the theologian Gerald O'Collins introduces us to Jesus as seen through the eyes and pen of the author of John's gospel. He describes a Jesus whose questions probe into the very heart of life and its choices, and whose spilled blood seals a promise of intimate friendship. These brief essays, revealing the fruits of rich scholarship and prayerful reflection, will provide steady fuel for those traveling the Lenten journey.