St. patrick Church 

Reflection from Father Moser on this Weekend's Readings

Today’s gospel story serves as the call of the first disciples in the Gospel of John; Andrew and another man leave John the Baptist to follow Jesus as their new teacher/rabbi. Jesus notices and turns to them asking, “What are you looking for?” This is a breath-taking question and a heart-piercing inquiry. I wonder what exactly is Jesus asking ~ could it be: what is it you want from me? Why are you following me? Who are you searching for? Imagine if Jesus asked you one of these very questions today! 

It seems likely that these two disciples of John the Baptist possess a deep longing or desire that they hoped Jesus could fulfill. It is obvious that Andrew was looking for the Messiah; he reports or tells his brother Simon about Jesus in glowing terms and proclaims “We have found the Messiah.” I wonder if Andrew and the other disciples possess a deep hunger or desire for any or all of the following: knowledge~ guidance ~ companionship ~ new life ~ wisdom ~ healing ~ truth~  justice ~ mercy ~ courage ~ love ~ salvation ~ peace ~ hope ~ God’s presence ~ forgiveness of sins ~ wholeness ~ consolation ~ his saving power ~ reconciliation.

Jesus is everything we’ve been looking for and more! Therefore, become a daily seeker of Jesus Christ; we are to be searching and finding the Lord by spending and taking time to be with him via: Eucharistic Adoration, reading and studying the Gospels, making a holy hour, attending a CEW, attending a retreat, praying in solitude, basking in the Trinity’s love through the sacraments, remaining or staying in his presence through prayer, contemplation, the rosary, Lectio Divina, participating in Mass, or meditation. Furthermore, look for Jesus in the ordinary moments of your life, seek Jesus in the ordinary people you are with or encounter each day.

Through these devotions and spiritual practices, we have an opportunity to listen to him and to answer him in our hearts when he asks: “What are you looking for?” So, before you rush off to spread the good news and to minister with Jesus pause a while and STAY with him. Perhaps you can pray: Jesus I am looking for ... OR you can answer in prayer like Samuel did, “Here I am. Speak (Lord), your servant is listening.”