FINDING THE MESSIAH (JN 1:35-42)
Prayer:
Jesus, I will be your disciple and follow you everywhere.
Imagination:
Picture Jesus with his three new disciples.
Context:
This gospel gives some more details and the call of these disciples. Andrew, and the other man, were originally disciples of John the Baptist who told them about Jesus. Andrew brings a third man, his brother Simon, to Jesus who immediately calls him Peter.
Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
The next day, John was with two of his disciples, when he saw Jesus walking by. He said to these disciples, “Look, there is the Lamb of God.” When they heard what he said, the two disciples followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following him, he said, “What are you looking for?” They said, “Rabbi (Teacher) where are you staying?” He said, “Come and see.” So, they went and stayed with him. It was four in the afternoon.
One of the two who followed Jesus was Andrew, brother of Simon Peter. The first thing he did was to find Simon and say, “We have found the Messiah” (meaning the “Anointed One”). He brought him to Jesus. When Jesus saw him, he said, “You are Simon, son of John, your name shall be Cephas” (meaning “Peter”).
Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder those that attract you.)
- The Baptist repeats these words twice “Behold the Lamb of God.” He wants these special disciples to find the Messiah.
- The Baptist is completely unselfish. He wants his disciples to leave and follow Jesus.
- They act immediately. They take the initiative because they want to find the Messiah.
- Andrew so prizes this relationship that he wants his brother, Simon, to be included.
- Simon also responds and comes to Jesus.
- Jesus gives him a new name, foreshadowing his role as the foundation of the Church.
Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- O Jesus, You are the Lamb of God, sacrificed for me.
- Invite me to come to you.
- I will follow you, stay with you and be your disciple.
- Jesus, I will tell others about you. They will share my gift.
- All of us will remain with you.
- You have a task for me (but that will come later). For now, staying with you is all you ask.
Resolution: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
+ I will take every opportunity to seek and find Jesus.
+ After finding him, I will tell others.
Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)
Rabbi, where do you abide? “Come and see.”