Day 202: John 1:35–42

When Jesus turned and noticed them following Him, He asked them, “What are you looking for?” They said to Him, “Rabbi . . . where are You staying?” (v. 38).

Peter, Andrew, James, and John knew Christ at least by reputation based on John the Baptist’s faithful ministry, and at least several of them knew Him by a prior encounter. We know from John 1, for example, that two disciples were nearby and heard John the Baptist declare Jesus to be “the Lamb of God” as He passed by (vv. 35–36). Verse 40 identifies one of these men as Andrew. Many scholars believe that John the disciple was the other, since as a rule John did not identify himself in his writings. We know for certain that Peter met Christ at this earlier time because John 1:42 tells us Andrew brought him to meet Jesus.

So when Jesus approached them at their boats, they were primed and readied by God—even if through a short period of time—to leave everything behind and follow Christ anywhere.

In fact, I’d like to suggest that just as James and John were preparing their nets, they themselves had been prepared. The word “preparing” in Mark 1:19 can also mean “repairing.” The exact same word is used in Galatians 6:1 for restoring a fallen brother—“If someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently.” Oh, how thankful I am that the same God who prepares also repairs and restores.

Joshua 3:5 contains a wonderful challenge: “Consecrate yourselves, because the Lord will do wonders among you tomorrow” (hcsb). God can perform a miracle in any one of us at any time, but amazing things happen when you and I are willing to get prepared for a mighty work of God. Included in that mighty work will most assuredly be what we need most—whether a fresh work, a repair, or a full-scale restoration.

As we get to know John and see events through his eyes, I trust God will be preparing us also. Let’s allow God to consecrate us and lay the groundwork for something spectacular. I pray that by the time we reach the end of this book, God will be amazing and astonishing to us. Right this moment, let Jesus look you straight in the eyes and tell you that He knows who you are and who He wants to make you. That’s the only way you and I will ever discover the One who calls us and the one we were born to be. Child, a great adventure awaits you.