SAINT BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE (FEAST)

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him. 

Today we commemorate St. Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, the central character in today’s Gospel (John 1:45 -51).   The story tells us a lot about conversion.   Even more, it can show us that every day presents an opportunity for a new encounter with Jesus.

First, Nathanael is introduced to Jesus by his friend Philip. Philip knew Nathanael was hoping for the Messiah and was excited to introduce him to Jesus.   And so it often happens for us.   We encounter Jesus through another person, someone who has been touched by Jesus, who is excited about their faith, whose fervor might even call us to stretch our own way of looking at things.

Second, Nathanael’s expectations were jolted when he met Jesus.   He had been pondering the Scriptures—a traditional interpretation of sitting “under the fig tree” (John 1:48)—and was convinced that the Messiah would not come from Nazareth.   But after he spoke with Jesus, he was willing to consider that something good might in fact come from that small village. For us, encountering Jesus can shed light on a way of thinking or acting that needs to change.   Maybe we don’t pay enough attention to caring for the poor or we feel too busy to listen to people who don’t agree with us. Jesus asks us to be open to rethink our ideas.

Third, Nathanael responded.   He didn’t just say, “What a nice experience” and continue on his way as before.   He professed Jesus as “the Son of God, . . . the King of Israel” and began to follow him (John 1:49).

You might experience a singular, spectacular conversion moment like Nathanael.   But it’s more likely that the response Jesus wants from you is to turn your life over to him more, to say yes to him a bit more completely.

Expect to meet Jesus today.   Be on the lookout for someone through whom Jesus might be reaching out to you.   How might he want to upend your expectations or call you to take the next step in following him?   Today is an opportunity to encounter him.   Make the most of it!

“Lord, help me to meet you today.   Shake up my expectations and help me to follow you more fully.”

Revelation 21:9-14
Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18