2nd Week in Ordinary Time (Year A) : Sunday 14th January 2024

When the call of God comes, it is persistent, even if not completely obvious at first. And it must be followed. Young Samuel discovered this when he was called by name in the middle of the night. Twice he was called, and twice Eli told him to go back to sleep, for he had not called Samuel. But Eli told him that if he heard it again, he was to say, ‘Speak Lord, your servant is listening.’ This should always be our response. Samuel was charged with carrying unpleasant news to Eli – his tenure as prophet was coming to an end.

Paul warns us that our body is the temple of God, and we should always treat it as such. That means refraining from impurity and sin but much more – we should glorify God in and with the body. The two disciples who chased after Jesus were curious – they wanted to know more about Him and where He was living. Jesus turned and asked them a pointed question – one that is also aimed at us – what are you looking for?

Many are searching frantically for something that they do not even know. They asked, ‘Where are You staying or dwelling?’ His answer – also aimed at us – was ‘come and see.’ In the Gospel it will be revealed that Jesus dwells in the Father, and that He will also dwell in us, if only we dwell in Him. His ‘come and see’ is an invitation to enjoy the friendship and closeness of God. Will we accept?

Lord, may I experience friendship with You.