What do you seek?

John 1 : 35 - 42

What do you seek?

This passage always speaks anew to me whenever I read it. I guess 'seeking' makes sense since we are pilgrims on a journey to our true 'home'. If we get too 'settled' in one place it may be our way of resisting the 'call' to move on. It is refreshing to hear Jesus ask, "What do you seek?" rather than just assuming the reason for Andrew and his friend's interest. It would also be interesting to hear Jesus ask this of us from time to time and especially at this early point in the new year. As I look ahead, I am still unsure where the path lies. Various options are available and I am in the midst of making some enquiries. But deep down I sense that I need to prayerfully wait a little longer. (Of course by waiting, some options will be closed) And perhaps in the meantime, spend precious time 'staying with' Jesus, as the two disciples did. I have been gently advised that such a path will 'teach' me much more than some of my many academic pursuits.

I see people around me busy, so busy, doing many things that are 'important', especially in the service of God. I am tempted to justify my existence too, by keeping busy and making sure I have appointments to keep. In my circumstances, it would not be realistic to say 'sit and do nothing'. That would not be possible with a home to run, my part time practice and some things I am already committed to. But perhaps the waiting I am called to do involves the 'pain' of not taking on more, by choice, but allowing each existing effort to deepen, allowing God by his grace, to work something in me and for me.

One thing I ask of the Lord...this is what I seek;

To dwell in the house of the Lord

all the days of my life

and to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord......(Psalm 27)