Our scripture this week is John 1:29-42.
Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter ).
John 1:40-42
Andrew tells his brother “we have found the Messiah” and a new chapter in the story begins. Andrew believes what he has heard and seen of Jesus and brings his brother Simon to meet Him. They will form the core of the band of followers we call His disciples.
Jesus sees something in Simon immediately and tells him “you will be called Cephas” meaning Peter, which also can be translated as “rock”. Jesus is telling him that things will change and that he will change during their time together. No one is left unchanged by an encounter with Christ.
Jesus sees something in you as well, and we can’t help but be changed. It is our choice to accept the gift that change brings to our lives and the difference our gifts can make in the lives of others. When we take on that responsibility, we become His disciples as well, entrusted with the kingdom work He has for us.
Gracious God, we are humbled by Your gifts to us and the call that places on our lives. Help us to be faithful in our love to You and others as we go in Your service to all people. Amen.