MONDAY, TWENTY FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Feast of Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
Rev 21: 9-14 Ps 145: 10-13, 17-18 Jn 1: 45-51
COME AND SEE
Sometimes the most meaningful moments in life begin with a simple invitation. The readings remind us that God desires to be close to His people and invites each of us into a deeper relationship with Him. They also show us how He builds His kingdom through ordinary people who are willing to respond to His call. In the vision from the Book of Revelation, the heavenly Jerusalem descends from God in radiant beauty. It is not merely a city of gold and precious stones; it is the symbol of God’s final communion with humanity. What is striking is that the city rests upon twelve foundations bearing the names of the apostles. The Church stands on the witness of those who encountered Christ and surrendered their lives to Him. God’s kingdom is not built on power, wealth, or human achievement, but on the faith of ordinary people transformed by an extraordinary encounter with Jesus.
The Gospel presents us with one such encounter. Philip, having found Jesus, immediately seeks Nathanael. He does not offer lengthy arguments or sophisticated proofs. He simply says, “Come and see.” These three words reveal the essence of Christian discipleship. Faith is not first a theory to be explained but a person to be encountered. Philip knew that if Nathanael truly met Jesus, his doubts would give way to faith. Nathanael initially approaches with skepticism. He cannot imagine that anything significant could come from an insignificant village. Yet Jesus sees beyond Nathanael’s prejudice and recognizes the sincerity of his heart. Before Nathanael speaks, Jesus knows him. Before Nathanael believes, Jesus has already loved him.
This is often how God works in our lives. We may carry doubts, limitations, and imperfect expectations, yet God sees deeper than our weaknesses. He calls us not because we are already perfect but because He desires to transform us. The heavenly city described in Revelation is built upon apostles who first responded to an invitation similar to Nathanael’s. They came, they saw, and they remained with Christ. Through them God built His Church.
Response: Tell among all the people the wonders of the Lord
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