Saints Philip and James, Apostles : Monday 3rd May 2021

Have you ever spent time looking for something and finally discovered that it was sitting in front of you all along?

Philip requests something both profound and wonderful. He bravely asks to be shown the Father. Philip does not realise that the fullest revelation of the Father is standing right in front of him in Jesus.

Today, we also celebrate the lives of Philip and James. We hear that Jesus appeared to James after the resurrection. We do not know this story’s details, yet this experience seems to have inspired James greatly. James would go on to witness to Christ, as a bishop of Jerusalem, and finally, as a martyr.

However, it took time before Philip and James eventually recognised that Christ was truly present in their lives. This changed them. This inspired them.

Is there some part of my life — perhaps a place, a situation or relationship — where I find it difficult to feel that God is present? Is there some aspect of my life or society where I desire to see God more clearly? What would it be like to ask Jesus to show me his presence in the midst of this situation? What would it be like to ask Jesus to show me that he is truly present in the midst of my very real struggles, suffering or uncertainty in life?

Lord, open my eyes to Your presence.