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HOMILIES - THE WEEK OF CHRISTMAS SEASON - SATURDAY Download This Homily
January 4, 2014
WEEK DAYS OF CHRISTMAS - SATURDAY
The First Disciples of Jesus
The Gospel reading of the day narrates the call of the first disciples of Jesus Andrew and Peter. From the account given in this passage, it appears that Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist. Andrew must have heard a lot about Jesus from John. It generated in him a curiosity to Know Jesus at close quarters. He wanted to know the details of Jesus’ life. He desired to have a personal encounter with Jesus at the earliest opportunity. When Jesus was passing by John the Baptist introduced him to Andrew. Jesus too was generous and welcoming. “Come and see”, Jesus invited him to the place of his stay. Andrew and another of John disciple went to stay with Jesus for one day. We can assume that Andrew could clarify many of his doubts about Jesus, regarding his vision of life and mission. Yes! Jesus is quite interesting. It is nice to follow him. Thus, Andrew became the first called.
Many follow Jesus without knowing him enough. Such followers are found to part ways with Jesus sooner or later. Challenges of disciples are too heavy for them to bear. To have, personal, intimate knowledge of the Master makes things easier for the disciples. Especially to follow a master like Jesus requires deep experiential knowledge of him. Andrew was happy to achieve this before he decided to follow Jesus. What about us? Do we follow Jesus with full knowledge about him? Have we ever updated and upgraded our knowledge of Jesus? The Holy Scriptures, especially the Gospels give us accurate knowledge about him. The Church documents and other Christian periodicals too impart valuable information about Jesus. Study classes, retreats, various spiritual exercises etc. give us ample opportunities to us to meet Jesus. But, do we make use of them sincerely and fruitfully? Jesus’ invitation to “Come and see” him is a permanent and universal invitation. Any one at any time can go and stay with Jesus and come out with fresh knowledge and experiences of Jesus. All of us must find some time to stay with Jesus daily. It would enriches our life and make our following him enjoyable and easier.
Only a convinced follower can lead others to Jesus. Andrew himself is the example for the same. After having decided to follow Jesus, he brings his brother Simon to him. Jesus accepts him too as one of the disciples. Jesus Christ continues to fascinate our race. The wider our knowledge of him, deeper our love for him and closer our following him.
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