Greetings on this the Feast of Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
Readings: Revelation 21:9b-14; Psalm 145:10-11, 12-13, 17-18; John 1:45-51
Summary
- The angel spoke to me, saying, “Come here. I will show you (Rev 21:9).
- “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” (Jn 1:46)
Making known to men your might
and the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.
Your Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages,
and your dominion endures through all generations.
(Ps 145:12-13)
Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the law, and also the prophets, Jesus son of Joseph, from Nazareth.” (Jn 1:45).
Reflection
A consistent theme in sacred scripture is the Day of Visitation. Thus it was for Nathanael.
For him it was a visitation of of truth and correction, mercy/salvation and vindication, all in one.
It was a visitation of historical reference (Jacob), personal spiritual movement, and the revealing of eschatological horizon. It was a visitation of community (Philip).
Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” (Jn 1:49-51)
All because he answered the offer to Come and see.
Personal Reflection
When Pope John Paul II came to NYC, I was too busy to go.
Over the course of my life, I cannot count the number of festivals and gatherings I did not attend due to responsibilities or, just as often, a lack of interest/motivation.
But in the most important of all invitations, may we never fail to answer the call to Come and see.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/feast-saint-bartholomew-apostle
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry