Readings
I - Rev. 21: 9-14
II - Jn. 1: 45-51
ST. BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE (Feast)
The Church celebrates the feast of St. Bartholomew also known as Nathaniel as mentioned in the Gospel passage. Nathaniel like any other Jew asks with a prejudiced mind to Phillip, “Can anything good come from Nazareth”. But, with the simplicity of heart and openness to the truth Bartholomew adheres to Phillip’s, “Come and see”. Jesus appreciates the sincerity of Nathaniel saying, “Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit”. Nathaniel in his conversation with Jesus, was convinced that Jesus was the Messiah, the Son of God and thereafter followed him with conviction.
We easily get prejudiced because of the rumours, gossips, experiences and encounters. We evaluate and estimate people from the place they come, to the family the belong, the caste and creed of the person, educational background, culture and their lifestyle. In this bargain we might miss meeting the wonderful person in him/her. Accept persons as they are to savour the goodness present in them. May the feast of St. Bartholomew, help us to give up our prejudice and discover the truth in every person. Let our mind and heart resonate with the prayer: “St. Bartholomew, Pray for us”.
