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Stirring
Have you ever misplaced or lost something, and it stirs little worry? You just know that Read More
Kathleen R. Flood, OP | Read John 1:29-42
Jesus notices the two disciples following him and asks, “What are you looking for?” It is a pivotal question in any encounter. It opens up the possibility for dialogue. We learn an important lesson here: Our task is to focus on what people are looking for instead of assuming we know what they need or want. John’s disciples reply, “ ‘Rabbi’ (which translated means Teacher), ‘where are you staying?’ ” When we hear these ancient words we realize how contemporary they are. So many people are looking for answers to their spiritual questions. The world can seem chaotic and gloomy like it was at the time of Isaiah. We ask, “Where are you, God?”
Jesus answers their question and ours: “Come and see.” He invites them into a relationship where they will find fulfillment of their longings. Andrew is convinced by his experience of Jesus and invites his brother to join them. I often wonder about what they see. I believe they begin to see with the eyes of their heart. They see Jesus’ concern for the widow and orphan, his feeding of people hungry for hope, and people crippled by fear and despair lifted up.
The words of an old hymn come to mind. “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace” (umh, no. 349).
I close with an invitation offered by John Mogabgab in his editor’s introduction to the January/February 2004 edition of Weavings: “During this holy season, let us listen and understand, look and perceive the one who even today responds to our heart’s desire with the words, ‘Come and see.’ ”
How will you answer Jesus’ question, “What are you looking for?” What do you need to see?
These readings contain the common theme of the power of spoken testimony. Isaiah begins by telling his audience, “Listen to me!” He then recounts not only his own story but also the promises of restoration given to him by God. The psalmist gives testimony of his experience. Although he has been in a difficult place, God has called him out and has given him a new song of praise to proclaim. Paul and Sosthenes write to the Corinthians to remind them of the powerful testimony that they had given them in person, which was confirmed by God. John the Baptist cries out that Jesus is the Lamb of God and bears testimony to the miraculous signs at the baptism. Our testimony as believers today can be just as powerful.
Read Isaiah 49:1-7. What does it mean to be God’s servant? How does this Servant Song speak of your experiences of serving God?
Read Psalm 40:1-11. When has scripture sustained you? What words have become a real presence to you?
Read 1 Corinthians 1:1-9. When have you turned your gifts inward as a sign of spiritual or social status? How can gratitude help you use your gifts in service to God and others?
Read John 1:29-42. How have you experienced Jesus saying to you, “Come and see”?
Respond by posting a prayer.
I join many of those who will pray for you as you seek to discern what you are called to be at this moment. May God grant you the courage to fulfill that calling. May we all open our eyes and see the misery, open our ears and hear the cries of God’s people, and, like God through the Lord Jesus Christ, be incarnate amongst them.”
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