John 1:43-51
How do you know me?…
I have always appreciated the variety of stories in the scripture when it comes to Jesus calling the disciples. For some it might be a bother that we have four different versions, but what I have found beautiful is the way that the gospel writers describe the disciples encountering the holy. The different ways that they acknowledge that there is something different about this so-called teacher, prophet, carpenter. They are compelled to ask great questions and follow a man they have never met before.
In the story from John today we experience Jesus in an encounter with Phillip and Nathaniel. They have lots of questions for Jesus and judgements, but Jesus with every question responds with an invitation “Come and See.” The question that intrigues me the most is “how do you know me?”
I see my five-year-old ask this question all the time at church or at the grocery to others who come up to her and begin a conversation. Everyone knows who she is for obvious reasons, but she is very suspicious of it. The whole pastor’s kid thing is still above her understanding a bit. She wants to know why she is known.
This question seems silly to us as the disciples ask it because we know the answer. It’s Jesus, aka God- so of course he knows you. However, it is a question that we ask of God when we find ourselves struggling or stubborn. How do you know me God? How do you know my sufferings, thoughts, hopes? We so want to be known and God is the one who knows us the best. Philip’s question is a profound one because I think he has been searching for someone to truly know him. That is what is great about all the stories about Jesus calling the disciples. Jesus calls them into purpose and belonging. With Jesus’ words of welcome and invitation they are guided on a journey that is bigger than themselves and gives them community.
That is why when my daughter asks how someone knows her, I am happy to explain to her that they are from church. That this faith community that we are part of cares enough to recognize each other, name each other, and make known that we belong to something bigger than ourselves. May you feel called, seen, known, and loved today by God and by one another.
Questions for Reflection:
- Where have you asked the question “How do you know me?”
- How does it feel to be known by God? By a faith community?
Prayer
Calling Christ,
You invite us into a relationship with each other, first choosing us and then gathering us together. Enliven our community to continue to support one another and share kindness, hope, and grace to those we encounter. Amen.
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