Come and See: Personal Invitation over Theory
“Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.”” ~John 1:48
Leave it to the artistic license of The Chosen, to help me appreciate Nathaniel’s calling. If you ever get the chance to watch it, it’s in season 2 episode 2.
There are three items I pondered.
The first is Nathaniel’s skepticism of his friend’s words. Phillip, who’s already following Jesus, invites Nathaniel to follow The Messiah.
Like any human, Nathaniel starts asking for credentials and “laughs” when he learns Jesus is from Nazareth.
Which town, group, community, or country do I dismiss as soon as I hear their name?
Instead of “dropping receipts” for Jesus authenticity, Phillip confidently says, “Come and See” (John 1:46).
No pressure tactics, no persuasion, just an invitation to meet Jesus.
Phillip invited Nathaniel to do nothing more than show up to meet Jesus
The second idea is Nathaniel’s quick conversion after a personal message.
What would Jesus have to say to me for all my doubt and skepticism to vanish and give way to belief?
In those days, being under the fig tree was considered a peaceful place for prayer. But, would that have been enough for Nathaniel to go from skeptic to believer?
One sentence is all it took for Nathaniel to proclaim Jesus as the Son of God.
Nathaniel must have been praying for something very unique and personal under the fig tree.
Lastly, recognizing that a personal relationship is greater than fervent theology.
Reading between the lines, we can infer that Nathaniel knew his faith well and practiced it. Otherwise, he wouldn’t be replying to Jesus with “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.”
Yet, it’s the Jesus’ specific and personal welcome that dismantles all of Nathaniel’s doubts and sparks his full commitment to the cause.
The personal connection overpowered all rational thought.
Today, I was reminded that Jesus wants a personal relationship with each of us. The challenge lies in our willingness to take the simple step forward, open the door for him to come in, and to share our most private details of our lives.
May we receive the grace to willingly seek a personal relationship with the One Through All Things Are Made.
In peace,
~Juan
