“When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, ‘What are you looking for?’ They said to him, ‘Rabbi (Teacher), where are you staying?’ He said to them, ‘Come and see.’” (John 1:38-39)
How often do we hear or use the expression, “Come and see”? We have all heard and used it countless times. “Come and see our new baby.” “Come and see this gorgeous sunset.” “Come and see the Big Dipper.” This expression evokes surprise and wonder. It points the way to something or someone special.
Andrew and John had been pointed toward Jesus by John the Baptist who said, “Look, here is the Lamb of God.” After Jesus’ invitation, the men followed him and spent a life-changing afternoon in his company. Afterward, Andrew told his brother, “We have found the Messiah.”
Yucatan Peninsula Mission uses the invitation “Come and See” as it seeks partners in ministries of health, education, and construction work. During this Lenten season, FPC will send two mission teams who have appointments with Jesus to go and see. The trips will be so much more than mere service or tourist opportunities abroad. They will be awe-inspiring journeys for those of us who will work, play, worship, study scripture, break bread, and live in Christian community with one another, our Mexican hosts, and Jesus himself. Lives will be changed; people in need will receive medical attention; the building of a school will progress; women will learn sewing skills; local children will share hugs and smiles and welcome strangers in their midst.
Today, prayerfully remember our mission teams. Visit ypminc.org or Yucatan Peninsula Mission on Facebook. Come and hear about our mission experiences when we return. Consider the invitation to “come and see” on a future trip. You need not be a master builder, teacher, or Spanish speaker. A willing heart and God’s grace are sufficient. Mission team members will be pointing the way.
Prayer: Loving God, open our eyes to see and our ears to hear your call to come and see, to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly as we follow the One who comes in your name. Keep our mission team members in your care as they go out into the world. Amen.
Sheila Roebke
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