David Bahn – Reflections

John 1:35-38

The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, ³⁶ and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” ³⁷ The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. ³⁸ Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?”

Many years ago a near-famous Rock and Roll band came to our home town. Our family motel somehow became the place that they stayed while in town. I recall the mixed feelings we had when we learned that several people had found out they were staying at our motel. But there were no mixed emotions for those who discovered where the band was staying. They were excited and happy to learn of the band’s whereabouts. Seems maybe the band was happy for all the attention as well.

I doubt the fans ever stopped to consider Jesus’ question; they were seeking the thrill of being with someone (near) famous. They could brag to their friends of this special occasion. Others would be so very impressed. In other words, these fans wanted to be with the band so that they would gain stature and standing among their friends. Sadly, the band never reached a higher level of fame. Those who were with them that night probably had some fun, but little more – and perhaps carry even some regret over the encounter.

Do you ever pursue such fame? Do you ever name drop? Is it important for you to be seen in high places? Do you glam on to others for some hoped-for fame? We preach best what we need most, so let the reader beware!

Jesus doesn’t offer vicarious fame to those who are associated with him. In fact, almost all those who were with Jesus at the end of his life forsook him for fear of similar treatment. But there is no better place to be than where Jesus is staying. And that place is with those who need him.

He is with those who would seek glory by glomming onto others, but yearn for a deeper purpose in life. He is with those who would seek excitement, but realize there is more to life than the latest thrill. He is with those who seek him and gladly welcomes those who would stay with him. It’s a good question for me, “What are you seeking?” Maybe you could ask that question of yourself today as well.

John 1:35-42

The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, ³⁶ and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” ³⁷ The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. ³⁸ Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” ³⁹ He said to them, “Come and you will see.” So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. ⁴⁰ One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. ⁴¹ He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). ⁴² He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter).