The Word And A Reflection and Prayer

2^nd Sunday of the Year 202, Invitation of Jesus, January 17, 2021

35 The next day John [the Baptizer] was there again with two of his disciples,

36 and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.”

37 The two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus.

38 Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?”

39 He said to them, “Come, and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon.^*

40 Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two who heard John and followed Jesus.

41 He first found his own brother Simon and told him,“We have found the Messiah” (which is translated anointed).

42 Then he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said,  “You are Simon the son of John;^* you will be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).^a

A  REFLECTION

This event, the two disciples meeting Jesus, happened sometime after Jesus’ baptism. Many people had gone to the river Jordan to be cleansed.  Many were looking for a Messiah. We know that John said that he was not the Messiah, only a prophet crying in the wilderness. But he did understand that Jesus’ was very special – he called him the “Lamb of God.” And he pointed him out to these two seekers. Andrew and another (perhaps evangelist John himself) were among the seekers. Some want to say that this is an autobiographical remembrance. The two were excited by the words of John and bold enough to follow that Lamb of God.

We in turn, 2000 years later, are still called into the scene – “Come and see.”.”

MY  PRAYER

May I start with a few words of direction?

When entering into this prayer period, try to set yourself comfortably and quietly for a few minutes. Then read the Scripture story again to put yourself in place, perhaps see yourself in the picture – with Jesus. The prayer time may be short – five or 10 minutes – or longer as your heart desires. Give full concentration to Jesus as these two men do. You might try to do this same prayer two or three times during the week as possible.

• I first thanked the Lord Jesus for the invitation to “Come and see.” I am called – that is why I am here at this moment.
• What would I want to say to Jesus ?
• What would I want to hear him saying to me :
  • what comfort or peace do I need
  • do I need to ask for forgiveness
  • can I say to him – “I thank you and I love you.”

Thank you, Jesus, for inviting me – I love you – I want to be with you and you with me.

Father Bill Kreutz, SJ, Scripture from the New American Bible