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     This is Philip's week!  His feast day on May 3 featured the very same passage from the Gospel of John that is presented to us today!  Many preachers and readers may shake their heads and turn to something a bit more exciting in Acts today about the decision by Paul and Barnabus to focus on preaching to Gentiles instead of Jews.  However, I think Philip's situation still deserves attention.  Jesus' question is a challenging one both for Philip (and the other disciples) as well as for us.  "Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me?"

     Philip's request reveals that he does not understand the unity between the Father and the Son!  He is seeing Jesus as an agent.  We have to be careful not to read later "trinitarian" reflection into this encounter.  What is important here is revelation.  Jesus reveals the Father in himself!  There is no other vision such as Moses had from the burning bush or Isaiah had when called to prophecy.  (Ex. 3 and Is. 6]  Such a vision makes no sense when THE vision is standing there!  Jesus often spoke with frustration about folks who wanted signs and wonders to make them believe.  Philip and the others would come to a more perfect faith once Jesus is "lifted up."  We have the benefit of all their preaching and the preaching of the Gospel of John.  We also have the benefit of the Holy Spirit.  How do we respond to Jesus' statement, "Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me?"  AMEN