Come and See

“Come and see for yourself,” Philip replied. —John 1:47b

Each year, MLK introduces young minds to the social liberation of Jesus Christ through literature. I’d like to think even secular authors who carry the Christian legend’s story in literature could warm up to what Philip shares to Nathaneal, a soon-to-be disciple not yet sure of who this Christ King is.

Philip’s words are soft, gentle, invitational. They’re empowering, too. He says to Nathaneal, and, in turn, to everyone, “Come and see for yourself.”

I hope all authors who write of one King (Martin Luther, Jr., that is) hear Philip. I hope they do come, meet, and see for themselves the King who inspired my fellow Boston University Alum into a social justice ministry that needs to continue to sweep across our nation. For that matter, I hope all bystanders catch the faith of the man who points us again and again to the Son of Man.

Don’t sit back, judge, or be any part of a systematic impasse. Instead, get up. Come over. And yes, see for yourself.

Nathaneal had preconceived notions about Jesus Christ. In fact, the skeptic is the first in New Testament scripture to scoff at the miracle-working minister of the socially disenfranchised, oppressed, vulnerable and voiceless.

But, like Philip, we can let the King we will honor this weekend invite you to the King of Kings, the very One who turned Nathaneal from a no to a go.

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, our King, thank you again for MLK, Jr.. In our gratitude, help us hear both Philip and MLK. Jr. say, “Come and see who You are.”