The encounter of Andrew and John with Jesus and their stay with Jesus reminds us of the four stages of vocation to discipleship.
1. SEEING: “What are you looking for”? V.38. According to the Johannine Gospel, Andrew and John (John, son of Zebedee) were disciples of John the Baptist, and gradually John directs them to Jesus: Lamb of God. Similarly, we have come to see Jesus directed or shown by parents (inherited faith).
2. STAYING: “They went and saw where he was staying” V.39. Since the Sabbath rest was about to begin and travel was forbidden. So, Jesus invited them to stay with Him and learn more about his life and mission till the Sabbath was over. The Greek word ‘stay’ (meno) as used in the gospel of John, means permanent relationship with God through prayer. We stay with him today in prayer and liturgy.
3. FINDING: “We have found Messiah” V.41. We experience Jesus mainly in three ways today, namely Word of God, Eucharist and Communion of the Community of believers.
4. PROCLAIMING: “he (Andrew) brought him (Peter) to Jesus”. V.42. Refers to a life of witnessing to be led by disciples. Amen.
Fr. Jerry Joseph Vallomkunnel MCBS