Philip has heard Jesus’ call to “follow me” and witnesses to Nathanael. Philip does not find Nathanael’s dismissive com-ment about Nazareth off-putting. Instead, he invites Nathanael to “come and see.” Philip turns a potential personal “upset” to a “set up.” Jesus takes over and addresses Nathanael, which may have been...

O Holy One, I am so blessed that you already know me. Help me see the greater things that you have in store for me. Give me courage to ask others to “come and see.” Amen.


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Lectionary Week
January 8–14, 2018
Scripture Overview

We read the stories of Samuel and the calling of Jesus’ disciples in John, and it is easy to feel jealous. God spoke so directly into their lives that they should have had, it seems to us, full and unwavering confidence in their calling. Didn’t they have an unfair spiritual advantage over us? However, the psalmist reminds us that God knows and sees us individually just as well as God knew Samuel and Jesus knew his disciples. God has plans for us, even if they are revealed in less obvious ways. The reading from Corinthians is quite different in its message. Perhaps we can at least recognize that even if we never hear God’s audible voice, through scripture God still provides guidance for our lives.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read 1 Samuel 3:1-20. In what ways do you remain responsive to hearing God’s voice?
• Read Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18. What sense of God’s involvement in your everyday life do you have?
• Read 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. How do you remind yourself of the spirit–body connection?
• Read John 1:43-51. When have you allowed prejudice to affect your decision about a person’s competency?

Respond by posting a prayer.