Once again Jesus gives a curious, cryptic teaching that leaves us wondering. “I have come into the world to bear witness to the truth. Every one who is of the truth hears my voice.” These remarks are hard to interpret. Yet, as with all he says, we are inclined to believe they hold great value for us.

Not long ago in a study group a man asked me if Jesus were “ordinary.” The question was unusual. On the spur of the moment I replied, “Of course, Jesus is ordinary.” His reply, “Jesus is the ultimate ordinary.” I have thought about that a lot. It occurred to me: might it not be that if I pursued the meaning of “ordinary” I would discover what it is in all of us, since we are all ordinary, that bears witness to the truth of Christ?

Many times when we use the word “ordinary” it seems to me that…