Answering the Call
Dear sisters and brothers in Christ,
Today’s Gospel brings us
to the banks of the River Jordan, where something extraordinary happens: the
first encounter between Jesus and His disciples. This meeting, though simple on
the surface, changes their lives forever and speaks powerfully to us today
about our call to follow Jesus and lead others to Him. As we journey through
this passage, let us place ourselves in the story and allow the Holy Spirit to
open our hearts to its timeless message.
The Witness That Points to Jesus
Picture the scene: John
the Baptist stands with two of his disciples. They trust him; they’ve followed
his teachings. Suddenly, John points to Jesus walking by and declares, “Behold,
the Lamb of God!” (John 1:36).
This simple phrase holds
so much meaning. John is saying: Here is the one who will take away the sin
of the world. Here is the promised Savior. At that moment, John does
something remarkable: he steps aside and encourages his disciples to follow
Jesus.
John the Baptist
exemplifies the authentic mission of a prophet: to prepare the way for the
Lord, to direct attention to Jesus, and to step back when the moment arrives.
His humility and clarity challenge us as Christians. Too often, we are tempted
to idolize those we call “men of God,” pastors, or leaders, placing them on
pedestals where only Christ should stand.
John’s example teaches
us a vital lesson: faith built on Jesus, not on human personalities, is faith
that endures. When we focus on Christ as the foundation of our lives, our faith
will stand firm, no matter the trials or challenges we face.
As we reflect on this moment
by the Jordan River, let us ask ourselves: Who are the “Johns” in our lives
pointing us to Jesus? And are we willing to embrace their witness, to follow
Christ with courage and trust? At the same time, let us strive to be like John
the Baptist, faithful and humble servants who direct others to the true Savior
of the world.
The Question That Changes Everything
The two disciples take John’s word seriously and begin
following Jesus. Jesus notices them and turns to ask a question that goes
beyond the moment: “What are you looking for?” (John 1:38).
What a question! It’s as
if Jesus is asking, what do you really want in life? What is your heart
longing for? These are the same questions He asks us today. What are you
seeking? Is it peace, joy, meaning, or love, wealth? Whatever it is, Jesus is
the only one who can truly fulfill it.
The disciples respond in
a way that shows their desire to know Him deeply: “Rabbi, where are you
staying?” (John 1:38). They’re not just curious about His address; they
want to spend time with Him, to be in His presence. And Jesus’ response is both
simple and profound: “Come and you will see.”
Jesus invites them on a journey, not just to where He’s
staying but to a relationship with Him. Brothers and sisters, this same
invitation is extended to us. Jesus says to each of us: “Come and see.”
Come and spend time with me in prayer. Come and discover who I am. Come and let
me change your life.
The Joy of Bringing Others to Jesus
One of the disciples,
Andrew, is so moved by this encounter that he immediately goes to find his
brother Simon. With excitement, he says: “We have found the Messiah!”
(John 1:41). And then he brings Simon to Jesus.
Andrew shows us what
happens when we truly encounter Jesus. We cannot keep it to ourselves. We are
compelled to share the joy with others, our family, our friends, anyone who
needs to meet Jesus. Today, we should ask ourselves: “are people running away
from Christ because of our lack of witness to him?”.
When Simon meets Jesus,
something incredible happens. Jesus looks at him and says: “You are Simon,
the son of John. You will be called Cephas” (John 1:42). “Cephas” means
“rock.” In that moment, Jesus sees not just who Simon is but who he can become.
He gives Simon a new identity and a new mission.
This is what happens
when we come to Jesus. He looks at us and sees beyond our weaknesses and
failures. He sees our potential, our true identity, and He calls us to
greatness. Just as He renamed Simon, Jesus invites us to let go of the old and
embrace the new life He offers.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
Brothers and sisters,
this Gospel is not just a story from the past; it is our story. Jesus is still
asking, “What are you looking for?” He is still saying, “Come and
see.” And He is still transforming lives, giving us new purpose and new
identity.
Today, let us reflect on three key calls in this passage:
The Call to Follow
Jesus: Like the first disciples, we are invited to leave behind
whatever holds us back and follow Jesus wholeheartedly. This means making time
for Him in prayer, learning from Him through Scripture, and trusting Him with
our lives.
The Call to Be
Transformed by Jesus: When we come to Jesus, we don’t remain the same. He sees
our potential and calls us to live out our mission as His disciples. Let Him
shape your heart and give you the courage to be who He made you to be.
The Call to Lead Others
to Jesus: Like Andrew, we are called to share the joy of knowing
Jesus with others. Who in your life needs to meet Jesus? Who can you invite to “come
and see” through your words and actions?
Come and See
My dear friends, Jesus
is walking by today, just as He was on that day by the Jordan. He is looking at
you, asking, “What are you looking for?” His invitation to you is the
same: “Come and see.” Will you follow Him? Will you let Him transform
your life? Will you bring others to Him?
Let us respond with open
hearts and, like the disciples, begin a journey that will change our lives
forever. For when we come to Jesus, we find the peace, joy, and purpose we
have been seeking. And when we bring others to Him, we participate in His
great mission of love.
Amen.🙏🙏🙏
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