REFLECTION
1 SAMUEL 3:3B-10, 19. 1 CORINTHIANS 6:13C-15A, 17-20 JOHN 1:35-42
What a wonderful Gospel passage we have to think about today – and every day! It’s John’s account of the “call” of the disciples. John’s approach to the topic is as different as night and day from the accounts of Matthew, Mark and Luke. Take note of the way the disciples are called in these Gospels.
In Matthew’s account, Jesus tells Peter and Andrew, “Come after me and I will make you fishers of men.” In Mark’s account he tells Matthew, “Follow me!” In Luke’s account he tells Peter “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” Jesus is direct and to the point – a tap on the shoulder and a command. Their approach makes me think of the numerous times people have asked me, “When did you hear the call?” I never heard a call! At least, not like the “call” Peter, Andrew and Matthew received. That’s why
I love the way John’s Gospel presents “the call.”
In John’s Gospel Jesus doesn’t call anybody! Instead, one person has an insight. John the Baptist, preaching near the Jordan River, spotted Jesus walking by. He immediately raised his arm and pointed to him saying to those around him, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” He wasn’t just noting Jesus’ presence. In that short phrase he was defining him. He identified Jesus and announced what his mission was – to be the sacrificial lamb. That one insight began a process of discovery.
Andrew and another disciple heard John. Their interest peeked, they followed after Jesus who eventually turned around and asked them, “What are you looking for?” That was enough. They spent the day with him. After they left Jesus, Andrew found his brother Peter and told him that he had found the Messiah. He then brought
him to Jesus.
How simple! How wonderful! Most people don’t hear a voice from heaven calling them to follow Jesus or to take up a ministry. The call comes through people who have faith – who have identified Jesus and followed him. Their words and actions are a quiet invitation to follow.
How did you hear the call to follow Jesus? Whose words and actions opened your heart to Jesus? Take the time to think about it – lots of time – quality time. I bet you’ll discover that God works in marvelous ways!
PRAYER Heavenly Father, thank you for inviting me to follow you – to work for the coming of your kingdom. Please bless me in my work, and bless the people who have guided me, encouraged me and supported me.
