Today’s scripture: John 1:35-42 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Christen Peters):
For many of us, this is not the story of Jesus’ gathering of his disciples that we remember. We’re more familiar with Matthew 4, where Jesus approaches Simon and Andrew as they are casting their nets into the sea. Details, details.
What sticks with me are these two things:
1) John tells everyone about Jesus — and he does it over and over again.
2) Jesus says “Follow Me” — and those called, do so.
From the time I was old enough to understand words, I’ve heard about Jesus. I’ve read untold numbers of books, seen hours and hours of television and movies about Jesus, and have attended the worship services of a dozen denominations. In spite of all of this, there have been periods of time when I’ve looked at all of the logical arguments against God and puzzled over how they seem to make total sense — and no sense at all to me. I’ve walked a path of intellectual investigation. I’ve actually tried to find reasons not to believe in Jesus.
And I’d like to take this moment to thank all of those who follow in John’s example and just keep preachin’ it.
No matter how far afield I have managed to get myself sometimes, the message that Jesus is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world still comes through. And just like those early disciples, “Follow me” grabs me around the heart everytime I feel Jesus call me with the same words.
Thought for the day: The truth of Jesus has been proclaimed throughout the ages and John’s example lives on today. Am I still prepared to follow when I’m called?
Today, let’s join together in prayer for: the growth of the fruit of the Spirit in my soul, especially the values of peace and patience.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. Use the item above as a starting point, or consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.