August 04, 2024

What Do You Want?

John 1:29-42

“We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ).

—  John 1:41

Our Bible reading today begins with an announcement from John the Baptist saying, “Look, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”

That was quite an announcement! God’s people had been waiting for the promised Messiah for a long time—hundreds of years. Could this be the deliverer God had promised through his prophets so long ago?

John heard a voice from heaven describing Jesus as “God’s Chosen One,” so he shared that news with everyone who could hear him that day. Then, the next day, two of John’s disciples who heard this message left to follow after Jesus. Would he be the one to fulfill their souls’ deepest longings?

As they began to follow him, Jesus turned around and asked, “What do you want?” They seemed a little tongue-tied but managed to ask where Jesus was staying. They were not so much concerned about location but about abiding with him, wherever he might go. He said, “Come and see.”

Could they be welcomed into his life, his journey, his story? Jesus’ invitation brought them into relationship, and what they were looking for was fulfilled enough for them to invite someone else, and then others, and so on.

Today, come and see.

Jesus, thank you for inviting us into your story. May we learn from you and follow you faithfully. Help us to accept your invitation to grace, sharing the good news that you are the Lamb of God. Amen.

About the author — Beth Fellinger

Pastor Beth Fellinger is a wife, mother, and grandmother who has more than 40 years of experience in pastoral ministry. She and her husband, Barry, have created a missional community in their neighborhood called the Ugly Couch Cafe. From serving coffee at a blue picnic table on their front lawn, to praying with neighbors, to hosting faith gatherings on a weekly basis, the Ugly Couch Cafe has grown—and nothing gives Beth greater joy than introducing people to Jesus.

Start your day with quick daily devotions.

See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!