SAINT BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE (FEAST)

You will see heaven opened. 

Under a fig tree. That’s where Nathanael (Bartholomew) was when Jesus saw him (John 1:48). What was he doing there? Eating lunch? Thinking about his to-do list? Daydreaming? Some have speculated that because it was traditional to study the Scriptures under a fig tree, Nathanael may have been meditating on God’s promises.

For centuries, God’s promises in Scripture had sustained Israel with visions of hope. A radiant bride, a city and temple shimmering with the glory of the Lord—the images pointed to a peaceful future when God would live among his people. Nathanael must have drawn strength from reflecting on this life to come, even as he felt the weight of Roman occupation. Perhaps this gave him eyes to recognize Jesus as the “Son of God” and “King of Israel” who would set things right (John 1:49). And Jesus replied, in essence, Keep watching. You haven’t seen anything yet!

That’s what Jesus tells us too. Like Nathanael, we have wonderful images of the life to come. And we even know that this life has already begun. Baptized into Christ, we have become God’s children and citizens of heaven. Now, as St. Catherine of Siena said, “All the way to heaven is heaven.”

Just as Nathanael sat under a fig tree contemplating God’s promises, you can set aside time for quiet, hopeful contemplation. You can try to imagine what heaven will be like. Or you can imagine Jesus surrounded by the angels and saints. You can even think about your loved ones who have gone before you and picture them with Jesus, praying for you, cheering you on, and rejoicing every time you act in faith.

So go and sit under your fig tree today, wherever that may be—an armchair, your prayer corner, the Adoration chapel. If you don’t have such a place, find one wherever prayer comes easiest. Lift your heart to the Lord and let his promises fill your mind. Then listen as Jesus says to you, “You haven’t seen anything yet!”

“Jesus, by your cross and resurrection, you have thrown heaven wide open. Let me see your glory and follow your gospel!”

Revelation 21:9-14
Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18
John 1:45-51

WORD AMONG US