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Urban Impressions of the Stations of the Cross

Monday, October 31, 2016

The Unexpected

Take a moment to read John 1: 35-39:
“The next day John was there again with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he said, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” The two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus. Jesus turned and saw them following him and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come, and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about four in the afternoon.”
Those two disciples were going about an average day. They were following John the Baptist, their teacher, doing those little things they did each day. It was ordinary. They probably knew what their day would entail - a few chores at work, listening to the teachings from John, sharing a meal with friends, the usual sort of day. 

Then the impossible happened, walking down the street, they encountered God. All we know is that they heard and followed, but what were they thinking. What questions did they have? Did they start wondering about those chores waiting for them or whether they would end up having that dinner with friends? Did they realize that this was one of those moments where everything they knew would change?

Encounters with God rarely come when we are ready, waiting, and looking for Him. We are far more likely to be jolted from our routine by the unexpected moments reminding us of God's presence. 

To experience these encounters, we need to be aware - we need to listen for the voice that says to us, "Behold, the Lamb of God." 

Today, spend some time listening for those hints of God's presence in your life. Take a few minutes in prayer to listen to God and to answer the question Jesus asked of the two disciples, "What are you looking for?"

Jennifer Delvaux

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