He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter). -John 1:39-42 NRSV
Reading these words gives me such a sense of community. Before the hoopla of the crowds and the miracles Jesus was building loving relationships with ordinary people. Friendships seemed to be so important to him as he started his ministry. Even though he was the Son of God, Jesus needed and desired friends and friendship.
This speaks to me of our need to have relationships with others. Perhaps it is in such settings that we too can experience God in our midst the ways that these men did? Maybe community is the place where we can bring friends to the Messiah - the One who can call out the Peter (the rock or the true self) in each of us?
We need each other Lord. Lead us to places of community where we can be vulnerable and transparent with others.
... this devotion is part of an ongoing series on the Gospel of John.
Yes! Yes! And Yes! Oh, and Amen!
ReplyDeleteAnd an amen from me Fred!
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