“Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found him about whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus, son of Joseph from Nazareth.’ Nathanael said to Philip, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’”
Have you ever been excited to invite someone to something to come and check out only to meet with their critique? Seriously, how could that be any good or really, you want me to do what? What I appreciate about this text is that Jesus found Philip. That is, Philip wasn’t looking for Jesus. Jesus simply said to Philip, “Follow me.” It must have been an exceptionally meaningful encounter though even though what transpired is not recorded, because Philip couldn’t contain his encounter. He had to share it and so he shared it with his friend. And even though Nathanael was less than enthusiastic Philip doesn’t go into a long explanation as to why he should do what Philip asked. Instead, he offers Nathanael a simple invitation, “Come and see.” Nothing coercive. No heated argument. Just come and see. What a wonderful way for us to invite others to come and see what God is doing among us. Come and see how God is moving in our lives. It’s an invitation, not a demand.
Prayer
Loving God, I so appreciate Philip’s invitation to Nathanael. Give me the courage to be invitational as well. I want others to know your love and I certainly don’t want to argue them into your presence. Help me to remember Philip’s simple invitation, “Come and see.” Amen.
