Come and See

JUN MARFORI

In the Gospel today, I read of the disciple Philip who hears Jesus’ call, and who, in turn, invites Nathanael. Nathanael expressed disbelief and was perplexed, wondering aloud if “anything good can come out of Nazareth.” Philip persists and says, “Come and See.” (John 1:43-51)

In these days of so many loud voices across different platforms and channels and modes and stations, it can be extremely difficult to hear the “whisper” that can mean almost nothing but everything, can be seemingly trivial, but the most significant, the one that may have eluded us for so long, and yet is longing to be heard. Many may come to us, sharing a conviction, genuinely wanting us to be touched and transformed equally, and yet we are immediately wary, and our thoughts – “What is he after?” or “I have heard this before.” Or “This is fake news.” Some may invite us and encourage and enjoin us, and we say, “what is it in for me?”

Have we recently seen the “Philip” in our lives? Or have we been much preoccupied with seeing and hearing – and failed to recognize the “whisper” that can only mean we are beckoned, invited, into a deep and personal communion where all that is important and eternal reside?

May we be gifted with the ears of Nathanael, to also hear the call and voice of the Lord, to commune with Him, to obey, follow, serve and love Him. May we spend moments with Him and allow Him to lead and guide our footsteps, to carry us when burdened. May we be like Philip, to heed His call to invite others too into a relationship with Him. May we truly be both Philip and Nathanael. Grant this to us, O Loving Lord and Good Shepherd.

Lord, as you have revealed yourself to me today, may my heart rejoice and proclaim as it is prayed in the Alleluia – “Alleluia, Alleluia. A holy day has dawned upon us. Come, you nations, and adore the Lord. Today a great light has come upon the earth. Alleluia, Alleluia.”

Be with us, Lord, and whisper to us today and always.