St Bartholomew, Apostle, pray for us
ST BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE : Thursday 24th August 2023
Rev. 21:9b-14; Ps. 144:10-11,12-13ab,
17-18; Jn. 1:45-51 (Ps. Wk. IV)
The Heavenly Jerusalem is not a place or a thing. It is the inner illumination of the mind and soul of believers that they received after passing through the challenges and struggles of life with faith and perseverance.
The beautiful imagery depicts the experience of the glory and splendour of God that they receive. We can begin to experience the joys of heaven even while we still live in this world. It all depends on our faith and the spiritual progress that we make.
Nathaniel was blunt and to the point. He probably laughed out loud when told that the Messiah had been found and that He came from Nazareth. He questioned whether anything good could come from Nazareth, for it was an insignificant village. And Jesus knew what his response had been! He was amused and observed that Nathaniel was honest and forthright – no guile or trickery. His honest heart enabled him to recognise and acclaim Jesus as the king of Israel and the Son of God. A pure heart goes a long way!
Lord, grant me a pure and guileless heart.
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