COME AND SEE
1 John 3: 7-10/Ps. 97/John 1:35-42
John 1:35-42 narrates the call of the first disciples of Jesus Christ. The gospel says they followed Jesus from the very moment John pointed out the Lamb of God to them. We too should follow Jesus from the very moment of encounter.
Again, the gospel says they stayed with him. As disciples we are not just to follow him but also stay with him. Staying with Jesus is formative since it offers us the opportunity to acquire his habits and virtues.
Moreover, when they asked Jesus, “Where are you staying?” Jesus said to them, “Come and see.” Jesus told them, “Come and see” so that they can “go and tell.” Every disciple is expected to encounter Jesus before going to proclaim him to the world. The New Ratio no. 61 succinctly portrays this idea; it says, “A disciple is one whom the Lord has called to stay with him, to follow him, and to become a missionary of the Gospel.”.
Additionally, the first reading, 1 John 3:7-10, challenges us further. John says those born of God do not sin, for the “seed of God remains in them” (1 John 3:9). This reminds us that our first and primary call is the call to be holy. The document of the Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium,” emphasises the universal call to holiness. Everyone is called to be holy. Let’s not remain in sin wilfully.
LET US PRAY
Father, let the light of your salvation dawn in our hearts and keep them always open to your life-giving grace. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
