I watched a TV series a couple of weeks ago about people turning into vampires. I must admit that I like scary movies. October usually brings a few new ones to check out, and vampires always turn my head.

In this show two characters discussed what happens when we die. They shared a fairly benign dream about being one with the stars and melding with the universal energy around us, the sort of thing I hear often, although not in many vampire movies. I was caught off guard when one said that she will finally become the I AM.

Many years ago I read a book by a famous actress, all about her spiritual journeys. In the last chapter she also revealed how she came to realize she is the I AM.

Jesus spent a good deal of time arguing with religious teachers, explaining to them who he was and why he came. Jesus told of Abraham, and how he rejoiced at seeing the day of Jesus arrive. The teachers objected, as Abraham was long dead. Jesus told them, Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was born, I AM.

Jesus asserted his continual existence, from before the birth of Abraham to that day. He made an audacious claim to divinity. Remember what God told Moses? This is what you are to say to the Israelites, I AM has sent me to you (Exodus 3:14).

When Jesus claimed I AM for himself, the astutely theological Jews around him picked up stones to stone him, understanding his claim to godhood. Only God goes by the name I AM. To appropriate it for ourselves points to the heights of vanity and hubris—an impulse that never quite leaves our hearts.

Thankfully, there’s only one I AM, and it ain’t you and it ain’t me.

John 8 in week forty-four of reading the Bible cover to cover

Photo by Joshua Newton