Investigating Jesus
By Andrea Chatelain
“‘Come,’ He replied, ‘and you will see.’ So they went and saw where He was staying, and they spent that day with Him. It was about four in the afternoon.” John 1:39
Garage door up. Car pulls in. Garage door down. I used to live in an old neighborhood where people didn’t make eye contact or care to know their neighbors. I craved connection and friendship, but ultimately ended up lonely and isolated. I longed to be known and know others, but didn’t realize that desire came from Jesus.
I got so lonely raising my first baby that, whenever I saw another woman with a baby stroller, I’d rush over to meet her. At that time, I was also new to my faith and relationship with Jesus. The first time I read through the New Testament I couldn’t put my Bible down. It was like Jesus was walking through my neighborhood and I was running after Him shouting, “I want to get to know You! Wait up! Please be my friend!”
But Jesus doesn’t make us chase Him. He doesn’t ignore our wave or shut His door. He stops intentionally to meet us where we are, and invites us to come and see.
I wonder how the disciples felt when Jesus invited them to spend time with Him. They were probably curious at first; maybe they had a thousand questions. If I were them, I’d want to pick Jesus’ brain about every topic.
After figuring out Jesus was the real deal, I imagine they felt like they belonged there with Him. The conversations weren’t forced; Jesus wasn’t looking at His watch wondering when they’d leave. Maybe they ate together and told stories and laughed like friends do.
It all started with an invitation. Jesus extends that same invitation to you and I. “Come and see.” Our response is up to us. We, like the disciples can come, see, and stay awhile—as long as we want—with Jesus. Through prayer, we can ask Him any question, praise Him for all the sweet moments, and rest in His provision.
Andrea Chatelain’s mission is to meet women in their struggles and love them forward with God’s truth. She's part of the Wholly Loved Ministries team, is a Midwest mom of three, faith and family writer, and college English instructor to immigrants and refugees. It’s her joy to lead Bible studies in her neighborhood, church, and community because she believes Jesus transforms lives when His people boldly seek Him. Her writing reflects her love for Jesus and heart for fellow believers. Connect with Andrea more online at www.afruitfulwoman.com.
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