Under the Fig Tree

Gospel Reflection 9/29/2022

In today's Gospel reflection, we are introduced to Nathanael, whom Phillip presents to Jesus. Jesus says to Nathanael, "Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him." Nathanael is baffled by how Jesus knows him, and Jesus says, "Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree. Nathanael answered, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel." (John 1:47-49)

Do you remember the first time you were introduced to Jesus? Did you immediately recognize that Jesus is the Son of God? Maybe you were introduced to Him through your family or possibly a friend? Perhaps you came to him very simply, or maybe you came to him through a difficult period in your life? However, whenever Jesus entered your heart, one thing we know for sure is that Jesus does not choose perfect people. It is true that Jesus says of Nathanael there is no duplicity in Him, but this does not mean he was perfect. Like all of us, Nathanael needs the Messiah as He is the ladder that wants to lead us to Heaven. "Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man." (John 1:51)

What I love about this Bible account is how Nathanael recognizes Jesus as the "Son of God," the one who has come to take away the sins of the world. Reflect or read over this Biblical story today and remember how when Nathanael was under the fig tree, Jesus heard his prayers. Never forget that Jesus hears our prayers and will come to our aid if we let Him. Although sometimes it may feel like our prayers are not always being answered, we do not understand how Jesus is moving things around in our lives and the world to bring everyone closer to Him. 

Let Nathanael be our example today and during your prayer time, profess within your heart your faith in Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

Gospel

Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him. “Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, I saw you under the fig tree.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you believe because I told you that I saw you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” And he said to him, “Amen, amen, I say to you, you will see heaven opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.” (John 1:47-51)