FEAST OF ST. BARTHOLOMEW
First Reading - Revelation 21:9-14
Gospel - John 1:45-51
The Gospel passage recounts the call of Nathaniel (also known as Bartholomew), a moment that reveals significant aspects of his character and faith. Firstly, Nathaniel is portrayed as a genuine seeker. Jesus acknowledges this when He says, "I saw you under the fig tree." This phrase likely alludes to Nathaniel's devotion to studying the Torah, a practice sometimes done under the shade of a fig tree, where rabbis would instruct their disciples. Nathaniel's dedication to studying God's word reflects his deep desire to know and follow God.
Secondly, Nathaniel is described by Jesus as "an Israelite in whom there is no deception." This suggests that he was a true and faithful Jew, a person of integrity and sincerity in his search for the truth. Lastly, Nathaniel's journey from skepticism to faith is noteworthy. When he first hears from Philip about Jesus, he skeptically asks, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" However, after encountering Jesus and realizing His supernatural knowledge, Nathaniel confesses, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God." His faith is confirmed, and his search for the Messiah finds fulfillment in Jesus.
Nathaniel's characteristics serve as an inspiring example for us. He represents the true seeker of God—someone who approaches faith with sincerity, integrity, and an open heart. Historically, Nathaniel's skepticism was understandable, given that many had falsely claimed to be the Messiah before Jesus. Additionally, the Scriptures prophesied the Messiah would come from Bethlehem, not Nazareth, which initially led to Nathaniel's doubt. However, his genuine encounter with Jesus leads him to recognize the truth, completing his search for God.
The first reading complements this narrative by presenting a vision of the new Jerusalem, a symbolic representation of heaven. This new Jerusalem, adorned with beauty and majesty, stands in contrast to the old Jerusalem, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. The reference to the twelve apostles in this vision emphasizes the continuity of the Church, founded on the apostles, in the eternal realm. The new Jerusalem symbolizes the ultimate reward for those who have faithfully sought and professed their faith in Jesus.
Dear friends, our journey as seekers of God should be inspired by Nathaniel's example. Our goal, like his, is to find our completion in God, culminating in the vision of the new Jerusalem. To achieve this, we must remain true seekers of God, dedicated to our faith. Nathaniel's faithfulness was rooted in his study and observance of the Torah. Similarly, as Christians, our faithfulness is reinforced through our engagement with the Word of God and the Sacraments.
Moreover, Nathaniel's encounter with Jesus was facilitated by Philip, who recognized Jesus as the Messiah and guided Nathaniel to Him. In our spiritual journey, we too have guides—our bishops, priests, and other spiritual mentors—who have deep personal experiences of Jesus. By seeking their guidance and wisdom, we can be led to a more profound encounter with God.
Let us pray that God grants us the grace to be genuine seekers of Him, so that in our search, we may find the ultimate fulfillment in His presence. May we, like Nathaniel, journey from skepticism to a deep, abiding faith, and one day behold the glory of the new Jerusalem.
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