The process of encounter with Jesus

GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Christmas Season: January 4th*

*Gospel : Jn 1:35-42*

*First Reading : 1 Jn 3:7-10*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 98:1, 7-8, 9*

*The process of encounter with Jesus*

*1) The Need of a Guide*

In the process of encountering Jesus we need a proper guide and guidance 

John the Baptist was a perfect guide to lead his disciples in right path, which ultimately resulted in encountering Jesus by two apostles 

This particular incident highlights the importance of a guide in our spiritual journey to encounter Jesus 

*2) The Need of interest : Be a Seeker*

One who wishes have an deep encounter with Jesus needs to have a genuine interest, to meet Jesus 

The two disciples of John the  Baptist, had genuine desire to meet Jesus 

So, as soon as their teacher guided them in the right path, they went in serach of the Messiah

Genuine interest makes our search successful

*3) The need to spend time with Messiah*

In the process of encountering Jesus, it is very important to stay with Jesus 

When the two disciples came to meet Jesus, He invited them to stay with Him 

In turn the two disciples stayed with the Lord, which made them to encounter the Lord in a deeper way 

Spending time with the Lord, is the key to encounter or experience Jesus 

*4) The need of Experiencing Messiah*

The two disciples of Jesus experienced Jesus in most personal way 

Since they stayed with the Lord, they were able to experience him in a deeper way 

The primary purpose of our life is to experience Jesus in a personal way 

This Gospel incident gives us the insight into how one can personally experience Jesus in ones life 

*5) The need of Proclamation*

Proclamation is the central point of encountering Jesus 

The two disciples after having met Jesus went back to share the divine experience with others 

One can't keep quiet once one experiences Jesus in his/her life 

Proclamation is the part of our mission

*6) The need of leading others to Messiah*

Andrew was one among two disciples of John who fallowed Jesus 

Andrew was the Brother of Peter

Once, Andrew had very personal experience of Jesus, He went and shared with Peter. 

Andrew was able to bring his bother Peter to Jesus whom He called *Cephas*, which means *Rock*

Am I able to lead others to Jesus?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*