Andrew tells his brother Simon, "We have found the Messiah," but that is not true.
They do not find Messiah because first, it is John the Baptist who points out to Andrew and the other disciple that Jesus is the Lamb of God. At that time, Andrew and his fellow disciple "heard what John said" and yet still calls Jesus, "Rabbi." The author of the Gospel made it a point to translate the title, "Teacher." This way of addressing Jesus indicates that the two still do not know who Jesus truly is. [1]
Then, it is Jesus who invites them, "Come, and you will see." Again, Andrew and his friend do not find Jesus. The invitation always come from Jesus. It is never the initiative of a disciple.
In the case of Andrew and his friend, this invitation leads to such an experience of "staying with Jesus" that will help them recognize that Jesus is more than a rabbi. Later, in speaking to Simon, Andrew will refer to him as the Messiah. Though at this point, Andrew clearly does not know fully what kind of a Messiah Jesus is, this is progress. [2]
This passage invites us, disciples of Jesus, to look back at our journey of following him and maybe reflect on first, who have pointed out Jesus to us. Second, it reminds us that it is always God who reaches out to us and offers the invitation. Third, does my time with Jesus help me to know him better? Finally, how aware am I of the opportunities and the vocation of pointing out Jesus to others?
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[1] Francis J. Moloney, S.D.B. The Gospel of John, Sacra Pagina Series. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1998; p. 54 - 55.
[2] Ibid.
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