31 August 2026

The beauty of the gospel and, in particular, the person of Jesus is that he doesn’t favour stereotypical behaviour. We see that in his priorities. ‘The last shall be first, the first last!’ We see it in his reaction to others. ‘Why does he eat and drink with publicans and sinners?’ In particular, we see it in the open-hearted way he invites people to join his circle.

John the Baptist recognises Jesus and acknowledges him as ‘The Lamb of God’. Two others hear him and are intrigued. They follow Jesus. He turns around and sees them. ‘What are you looking for?’ he asks. ‘Where do you live, Rabbi?’ they ask acknowledging his status as teacher. ‘Come and see!’ says Jesus rather enigmatically. And they do.

It’s such a gentle and generous response. He accepts them and makes room for them. They become disciples. Andrew tells his brother, Peter. And the circle begins to grow. This is how it works. It’s essentially a ministry imbued with gentleness, characterised by acceptance. What a peculiar crowd they turn out to be sitting around table at the Last Super.

Judas betrayed him. Peter denied him. Thomas doubted him. James and John vied with each other to be given the most important place. They all deserted him. But despite their faults and failings, he accepted them, forgave them and loved them.