“When someone says, ‘I see you,’ they are showing that they recognize what you are doing,” according to the website Linguaholic. This phrase, “I see you,” captures the convergence of all that is happening in worship and in the life of the church this week.
Consider the story from the Gospel of Luke—the walk to Emmaus. Two disciples are traveling when a third person joins them. This third person sees them, listens to their sorrow, and walks alongside them. They recount all that happened during Holy Week: Jesus’ trial, death, and resurrection. The two disciples are amazed that their new companion seems unaware of these events. When they reach their destination, they invite him to stay with them for the night. At the table, the guest takes bread, blesses it, breaks it—and in that moment, their eyes are opened. They recognize Jesus. They see Him.
“I see you” also speaks to this week’s elections. It is a time for the voting public to be seen and heard, for people to move with purpose into the voting booth. Patti and I recently spoke with leaders from one of our church’s many outreach ministries, reflecting on how powerful the message “I see you” can be. It offers hope to those seeking community, and we are grateful that our church provides a space where people can be seen, heard, and cared for.
On this Mother’s Day weekend, “I see you.” I see those who have cherished relationships with their mothers, or are mothers themselves who see and love their children deeply. But I also see those for whom this day is difficult—those who have experienced loss, distance, or pain. Whether your story is one of joy or heartache, “I see you.”
“I see you,” confirmands. You have chosen to affirm your baptismal faith and claim your identity in Christ and in the Hyde Park Community United Methodist Church. You’ve explored your beliefs and decided to make this faith a foundation in your life. I see you.
“I see you,” graduates. You’ve completed an important chapter in your education. It’s a time for celebration, cake, and hearing, “Well done.” Soon, you’ll move on to new adventures, facing new decisions. It’s an exciting time—and I see you.
Through all these moments—the Emmaus story, the elections, Mother’s Day, confirmations, and graduations—we are reminded of the sacred act of seeing others. We see who they are, what they strive for, and the hope they carry.
Pastor Todd