The Feast of St Bartholomew

Rev. 21:9-14, Jn 1:45-51. On this day we celebrate the Feast of St Bartholomew. The Apostle Bartholomew is identified in today's Gospel with the name Nathanael to whom Jesus pays this lovely compliment: “Here is an Israelite, incapable of deceit.” Jesus admired his openness and honesty, even when Nathanael shared his low opinion about the hometown of Jesus: “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”. The honesty of Nathanael in seeking truth brought him to Jesus: “Come and see” was the answer to his search. He was a man without guile and so he could encounter what he sought sooner. We wonder what he saw and experienced. We come to know what he saw from the witness of life he offered. He could not hide or keep for himself the profundity of truth he came across. He found in Jesus a message that is alive and that brings joy for all.

Nathanael left his homeland and took along with him the treasure that he found and went as far as India and many other countries. It takes generosity of spirit to recognize when we are wrong and recognize that our opinion of some person or place was based on our prejudices rather than on reality. Nathanael’s honesty can inspire us on this his feast day. We may have some insight into Jesus, a certain appreciation of Him, like Nathanael, but there is so much more to see and appreciate. Today's first reading should be a great source of inspiration to us, as John saw in his vision the coming of the great New Jerusalem, the Holy City of God, on which was written the names of the Apostles of the Lord, on each of the twelve gates of the great city. This is a reassurance and promise from God, that all of those who have been faithful to Him and are devoted to Him, will not be forgotten, but instead will receive the fullness of joy and true happiness, glory and satisfaction in God in due time.

May the Lord grant us the grace to bring forth His light into the darkness of people's lives! Amen!! Good morning, and have a pleasant day!!!