Seeking and Finding

The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!”
The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he 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 see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter). John 1:35-42 

We recently had boxes delivered that have been in storage a long time. Although every box is carefully marked, there are always surprises upon opening any particular box. Of course, there are many books, but sometimes forgotten treasures are found, small letters and remembrances, set aside but now delighted in again. I find this search and discovery operation in our household, not unlike Lenten spiritual exercises. Our true selves are revealed, in all the mess and joy, and God has a deepening relationship as we seek the Savoir in the midst of our daily lives.

The disciples of John were invited by Jesus to come and see. Andrew brought his brother Simon with him to see Jesus. This naming disciples story is different from the calling from the seaside. Andrew and Peter (along with others) had to seek Jesus out and follow him to his dwelling. Sometimes, we are called away by God from our daily chores, but most often, especially in this season, we are invited to intentionally seek God's love, to work at understanding Christ in the midst of us, invited by God to step out of the routine and get a new name and a new perspective.

Today I ask God to help me intentionally seek Christ with an open heart and mind. May we do the work we are called to, that is, renewing our faith as we seek God's love in old and new places.