JP5: COME AND YOU WILL SEE.

COME AND YOU WILL SEE

In Stephen Covey’s book, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” we find his often quoted success habit: “Begin with the end in mind.”  Covey observed that effective people intentionally arrange their life rhythms in a way that makes achieving their goals possible.  In other words, starting out with a clear goal is crucial to finishing well.

Just three years prior to his death by cross, Jesus begins with his earthly departure in mind.  Instead of moving forward alone, Jesus chooses to start his world saving mission by inviting ordinary people to join him.  Not religious people, but a group with whom he could share life, equip for service, and ultimately pass on the ways of sacrificial love after his death and resurrection.  

In love, Jesus knew back then that rescuing us from the stain of Adam's sin required partnering with others to pass along his plan of redemption to future generations.

This is how the Apostle John remembered following Jesus from the very beginning,

“The next day again John (the Baptist) was standing with two of his disciples, and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!”  The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus.  Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?”  He said to them, “Come and you will see.” So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour.  One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter's brother.  He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ).  He brought him to Jesus. (John 1:35-42)

In love, Jesus knew back then that rescuing us from the stain of Adam's sin required partnering with others to pass along his plan of redemption to future generations. Do you see how Jesus first invited John the Baptist’s disciples into a relationship?  Instead of merely giving them directions to where he lived, Jesus invites the curious two on a walk so they could see and experience for themselves.  When they arrived, Jesus was not hurried, but made time for them, gifting them a full day of companionship with him.  

We have a Savior who delights in people so much that it’s infectious.  

We have a Savior who delights in people so much that it's infectious. Full of excitement, Andrew responds by finding his brother, Simon (Peter), and sharing the news that they had “found the Messiah”!  The urgency and delight of finding the long awaited “Lamb of God” demanded that Andrew bring his brother to see Jesus in person.  

In the same way as these first disciples, Jesus is calling out to us today.  He invites us, as ordinary people, to start by resting in his welcoming presence and devoting ourselves to experience life in community with others.  If Jesus carried out his earthly ministry in community with others, then how much more should we?  

Today, let’s begin with the end in mind by considering the joy of meeting Jesus in heaven.  

Today, let's begin with the end in mind by considering the joy of meeting Jesus in heaven. Imagine spending the day with him, reflecting on years of faithful following - in community with others.  As a Spirit-filled Christ follower, you have so much to offer your neighbors, friends, and coworkers.  Move forward in your journey to meet Jesus by inviting your neighbors into your home and starting a friendship. When they come, they will see Jesus in you.  For all of eternity they’ll be glad that you began, like Jesus, with the end in mind.

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‍PRAYER: Jesus, I’m glad that you pursued me when I was far away from you.  Change my heart toward my neighbors and help me pursue friendships with people who are not like me.  Teach me to make changes in my life rhythms that make room for hospitality. Make my home a place of rest for the weary and may they find you when they share life with me.  Amen.