In our Gospel lesson from John this Sunday there are a variety of interesting things going on. Jesus is identified by John the Baptist, he recruits his first disciples and he even renames one of those disciples.
However, what I find to be one of the most interesting aspects of this passage is when two of the disciples decide to follow Jesus. Not follow him as in become his disciples, but literally follow him as he walks town. Imagine a spy movie where the hero is shadowing the villain, keeping them in sight, but trying to remain unseen themselves. This is the image I have in my mind as I read about these disciples following Jesus.
Jesus, aware he is being followed turns and asks the disciples (who are not yet his disciples), “What are you looking for?”
They respond, “Where are you staying?”
This is one of the most incredible statements I think I have seen the disciples make. The Messiah, who they haven’t met yet, turns and asks, “what are you looking for” and they respond with “where are you staying?” These two disciples clearly didn’t get their stories straight before they decided to follow Jesus around town. And yet, their question probes at something far deeper and more meaningful than a simple dwelling.
If Jesus is the Messiah, then asking a question about where he is staying is very meaningful. We might also ask, where is Jesus staying. John, in his Gospel, does not tell us. Jesus simply responds “Come and see.”
I would encourage you to go and see.
Text: John 1:29-42
Questions for Sunday
- How would you respond to Jesus if he asked you, “What are you looking for?”
- Where do you think that Jesus was staying?
Prayer for Sunday
Gracious God, we wish to abide with you. Allow us to walk with you, grant us the curiosity to ‘come and see’ where you are dwelling. That we might also dwell there and remain with you. Forever. Amen.