A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 1:35-42
John was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, "Behold, the Lamb of God." The two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus. 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?" 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. Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two who heard John and followed Jesus. He first found his own brother Simon and told him, "We have found the Messiah," which is translated Christ. 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.
REFLECTION:
"We have found the Messiah" is the expression of a soul who is longing for the presence of the Lord.
Andrew saw Christ, heard him speak and then observed him. The following day he went to his brother, Simon, proclaiming that, "We have found the Messiah". Andrew was eager to share Jesus with others. When Jesus saw Simon and before he spoke to him, he renamed him Cephas ( it means "rock").
Many times we get "tongue tied" or very hesitant or so introverted during opportunities of evangelization. We might feel that we don't know enough of our Catholic Theology, or supporting bible verses or we just can't speak to others the way saints wrote or spoke. So we don't even try or we are not convicted of what we believe and cannot then speak of Jesus.
But ,notice that many times few words or simple gestures is all that is needed. John the Baptist merely said, "Behold, the Lamb of God" and pointed. Jesus said "Come and see". Andrew in his excitement simply said (paraphrasing) You have got to come and see him, Simon.
How do we let people know about Jesus Christ the Messiah? It should be with simplicity, conviction and with humility. '
Let people see Jesus in us in our love and mercy.
Remind people who are struggling of God's promises.
Share with others how Jesus has helped you in your life.
Be patient and listen "to the rest of the story". Many times people will invite you into the front room of their lives-- The tidy room, the receiving room. The one kept clean for company. But listen to what people are saying and look at their eyes and you might notice they need Jesus. Wait and listen....
Open up about yourself and let people know how God has worked in your life. Share your miracles.
When you react to people's needs, you will let people see Jesus working intimately in you.
Be nice, kind, caring, loving, honest, fair, generous and they will see Jesus.
Be simple, Be humble
Serve only One Master.
Lose the Pride.
God Bless
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