Today, as we gather to celebrate the feast of Saint Bartholomew, whose name is synonymous with truth and integrity, we are reminded of the foundational role that each of the apostles played in the birth of the Christian community. Saint Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, is a figure who invites us to reflect on our own call to faith and our place in the divine plan.
In the Gospel reading from John, we encounter Philip finding Nathanael and exclaiming, “We have found the one about whom Moses wrote in the law.” Nathanael's initial skepticism, captured in his question, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” is a theme we can all relate to. How often do we dismiss possibilities based on our preconceptions? Yet, it is Philip's simple invitation—“Come and see”—that changes everything. Nathanael’s journey from doubt to belief illustrates the transformative power of meeting Christ firsthand.
Jesus' recognition of Nathanael as "a true child of Israel" resonates deeply, for it speaks to the importance of authenticity. Bartholomew/Nathanael embodies a commitment to truth, a characteristic that Jesus appreciates. This testament to his character is not merely a descriptor; it is a call for us to examine our own authenticity in faith and life. “There is no duplicity in him.” What a wonderful attestation from our Lord, who is truth himself, on another individual trying his best to live in truth. How inspiring is Bartholomew to us then, as we try to live our vocations with single-mindedness and focus of heart? As we continue our journey let us pray to have a similar yearning for authentic living.
As we reflect on the first reading from the book of Revelation, we are given a magnificent vision of the heavenly Jerusalem, where the names of the apostles are inscribed on the foundation of God's eternal city. Each name represents not only a disciple of Christ but also a unique journey of faith. By naming Nathanael among the twelve, we acknowledge his critical role in the growth of the early Church. The city of God, with its radiant beauty and harmony, serves as a reminder of what is at stake in our spiritual journeys. Each step we take toward holiness contributes to the unification of humanity with God.
Bartholomew is often associated with preaching in foreign lands, especially Armenia, where he is believed to have met his martyrdom. His mission reflects the call to evangelize, to bring the good news of Christ to the farthest reaches of the earth. In doing so, he displayed profound courage and a willingness to sacrifice his very life, embodying the essence of courage in apostleship.
As we ponder his life and witness, we are encouraged to ask ourselves: How do we respond to the call of Jesus in our own lives? Are we willing to overcome our doubts, like Nathanael, in order to encounter God? Are we prepared to invite others to come and see the beauty of faith?
Saint Bartholomew encourages us to embrace our authenticity, to stand firm in our convictions, and to be open to the transformative power of Christ. May we be empowered by his example to take bold steps in our discipleship, as we strive to see the greater things that arise from our encounter with Jesus. As we partake in this Eucharist, may we be fortified with grace to be bold and go out into the world with apostolic zeal sharing the wonderful news of our loving Saviour. Amen.
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