Come and See
To reflect God’s heart to the world around us, we need to know God’s heart and, we believe, God’s heart is most clearly represented in Jesus. In the weeks leading up to Easter, we invite you to explore the life of Jesus by reading the Gospel of John with us. As we delve into the richness of scripture, we’ll utilize the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, which invites us to slow down and posture our hearts to hear from God. With that said, let’s begin with a prayer:
Open your time by reciting these words:
Lord, as I approach scripture, prepare my heart to encounter You in its pages. Quiet the distractions that pull me away and open my eyes to see Your truth. May I encounter these words humbly, with an open mind and a receptive spirit. May my time in Scripture be a sacred encounter that deepens my relationship with You and transforms me into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Lectio (Reading)
Take a moment to read John 1:19-51 slowly and attentively. As you read, pay attention to any words or phrases that stand out to you. Allow the text to wash over you, inviting the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart.
“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
Meditatio (Meditation)
As we read through the encounters with Jesus captured in John's gospel, we’re not just exploring a recounting of events long past; but joining a story that's still unfolding, a story that intersects with our lives today. Picture John the Baptist, his voice echoing through time, boldly proclaiming in verse 29: "Look! There's the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" It's a statement that flips our understanding of salvation on its head. Jesus isn't just a figure from history; He's the ultimate answer to humanity's deepest need—freedom from sin. He offers forgiveness and a fresh start to anyone who chooses to follow Him.
Take a moment to reflect on the words you have read. Picture John the Baptist’s passionate proclamation, and consider what it means for Jesus to be the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. As you ponder these truths, invite God to reveal His presence in your life today and deepen your understanding of His love and grace.
Contemplatio (Contemplation)
Yet, Jesus doesn't just remain a distant theological concept; He extends a personal invitation to "come and see" (verse 39). He wants us to experience Him firsthand, to embark on a journey of discovery and transformation. Like the disciples who walked with Him, we're invited to step into an adventure of faith—a trek filled with moments that reveal more of who Jesus is and compel us to share His love with others.
Consider Nathanael's encounter with Jesus in verses 47-51. Jesus sees him beneath the fig tree, knowing him intimately and affirming his faith. Nathanael's response—"Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"—is a proclamation of newfound conviction, a recognition of Jesus' identity as the long-awaited Messiah. In our own lives, Jesus sees us as we are—flawed, broken, yet beloved. He meets us in our doubts and uncertainties, revealing Himself in unexpected ways. As we respond to His invitation to "come and see," we're transformed by His grace and truth, becoming witnesses of His power and love in the world.
Take a moment to reflect on instances where you have felt seen and known by Jesus, and how these moments have influenced your faith journey.
Actio (Action)
In the quiet moments of reflection, we hear His gentle call: "Come and see." Andrew's response echoes through time—a simple "yes" that changed everything. As we, too, respond to His invitation, we're drawn into a journey of discovery, encountering the depths of His love and grace. But it doesn't end there. Just as Andrew couldn't contain his joy, we're compelled to share the good news with others (verses 40-42). In our words and actions, let's reflect the transformative power of encountering Jesus.
Take a moment to consider how you can embrace God’s call and step out in faith by sharing His love with a world hungry for hope.
Oratio (Prayer)
Close your time by reciting this prayer or lifting up your own:
God, as I go about my busy life, help me to hear Your gentle invitation to "come and see" and to respond with open hearts, ready to encounter You anew. As I draw closer to You, may Your love and grace change me from the inside out, igniting a desire to share Your good news with those around me. Show me how to be lights of hope, reflecting Your presence in everything I say and do. Amen.