Main Text: John 1:29-42 (Isaiah 49:1-7; 1 Corinthians 1:1-9)

What
are you looking for? This was Jesus question to John’s disciples. They had
heard John himself identify Jesus as the “Lamb of God”. John had actually said
it twice. Jesus question, however, is an important one for those who seek to follow
Jesus. What are you looking for? Are we looking for a savior to love us as we
are, or do we want one who can lead us toward who God called us to be? What are
your expectations of Jesus? This is what Jesus was asking John’s followers. To
follow Jesus was different than following John. John’s ministry was calling
them to repent or turn around so they could see. Jesus was calling them to move
into a new life. Their answer satisfied Jesus. “Where are you staying.”
Dwelling with Jesus was what they were looking for. In the reading from Isaiah,
God identifies Israel as God’s chosen people. Israel responds that they have
not acted like it. They spent their strength on themselves and not on their
relationship with God. None the less, they recognize that God is the one to
whom they are looking now. God invites them to dwell with him. He invites them
into an even greater mission than the one they had just failed at doing. Paul
introduces himself to the Corinthians, but not as an invitation for them to
follow him. Rather, he reminds them that like himself, they are called and
chosen by the grace of God. Paul invites them to dwell with Christ. What are
you looking for? Is your desire to dwell with Christ? By the grace of God, we
are invited to do just that.