Steven M Schisler
Aug 24, 2017 · 2 min read

. My boss was very involved in the larger association of owners and contractors of our trade. They were the main negotiating body with the union for our contract wages and benefits. I went to several different gatherings and functions with him as part of my job. At one of these functions, in conversation with several other owners, a question was raised as to why we had certain people acting as general foremen and foremen of our jobs. My boss shrugged his shoulders and motioned towards me. I answered that we obviously saw something in these guys that others hadn’t found quite so apparent. For the most part too, these guys were doing well with their opportunity.

Today’s readings (REV 21:9B-14, JN 1:45–51) are chosen for this day on which we celebrate Jesus inviting the Apostle Nathanael to “Come and see”. The story is brief and sketchy with Phillip bringing Nathanael to meet Jesus, who told him, “here is a true son of Israel… with no duplicity in him”. Jesus in this brief encounter told Nathanael that He saw him “beneath the fig tree”. As simple as that then, Nathanael testified that Jesus was the “Son of God”. Our first reading from Revelation speaks of the Heavenly City Jerusalem being built on the foundation of the Apostles.

Jesus’ comment revealed to Nathanael that Jesus knew him before they were properly introduced. Jesus knew that Nathanael was a study of Scripture and meditation on God’s word. Jesus could see beyond just the surface, into who he really was and wanted to be. How often do we just “judge a book by it’s cover”? How often do we see the outward failures of a person and label them as bad people, losers or useless? We fail to get to know people and give them any benefit of a doubt. We fail to try to see the good that underlies many of their efforts and aspirations. We listen to other’s opinions of them (the media?) and never take the time to truly “come and see” them. Jesus looks into each of us just like He saw Nathanael. He sees beyond our failures and sins. He sees what truly lies in our hearts and what truly motivates and inspires us. He judges not as people do but as God… based on our heart, abilities and our inner giftedness. He then invites us to “come and see”, not only who He is, but who we truly are… children of God, made in His image and likeness, and GOOD. Peace and All Good, my friends!

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Steven M Schisler

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Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Catholic Deacon, Secular Franciscan, Outdoorsman, Adventurer, Retired/Disabled Electrician/Field Superintendent/Project Manager/Vice-Pres