I was reading John 8:31-58. A long passage. And it's filled with strong hard truth from Jesus. It's no wonder the Jews at that time were so upset and angry at His words. It was indeed claims that were beyond comprehension and seems absurd. Only to those who chose not to hear. Only to those who were not opened. Putting myself in their shoes, I can understand their frustrations and questions.

Yet, this makes me appreciate faith more. Helps me understand it better. Well, though it's hard words to swallow, yet there were people who had believed Jesus then. There were people, the Jews and non-Jews. The Samaritans, woman at the well, Centurion soldier, paralysed man and friends, the 12 disciples...These people believed Jesus. There must be something that triggered them to believe.

And it's

1. Faith
2. God opening up their hearts and eyes to see
3. People whom God gives to Jesus

Indeed, it's both ways. I always believe it's both ways. God opening up the hearts and man responding to it in faith. And it sure is a big step of faith then1 And now too! For some, the atheist and the agnostic. They are big claims to swallow. I now understand, in part, why it's hard for them to accept. It's really something not rational to human mind.

Faith. It sure is powerful. It can be as small as a mustard seed but it can move mountains! I pray that one day, my friends will take that step of faith in Jesus and God will open up their hearts.