Jesus Truly Sees Us
As they (Philip and Nathanael) approached, Jesus said, “Now here is a genuine son of Israel—a man of complete integrity.” “How do you know about me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus replied, “I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.” John 1:47-48
When I was young, my mom could tell if I had a great, good, bad, or horrible day at school just by looking at me. Not only by the expression on my face, but by my body language - my posture, if my shoulders were slumped, if my head hung down or was held high. She could see how my day was before I said one word.
Upon meeting him, Jesus speaks to Nathanael about his life in a way that no human would know. He reveals to Nathanael that He, as the Son of God, knows him. “I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you,” Jesus tells him. Jesus saw his integrity. Even before Nathanael started his ministry work, Jesus knew what Nathanael was capable of, Jesus saw his heart.
Jesus sees us in the fullest sense of the word. He has been with us, watching us, walking with us. He has seen the pain, the struggle, the depth of our deepest desire. He sees where we have been and the work of the Holy Spirit in us, Who is transforming us into who the Lord has created us to be. He loves us as we are, and He already sees and loves who we will be.
Thank You Lord Jesus for Your grace, forgiveness, mercy and love today, just as we are. Continue to work in our lives, as we trust in You for who we will become - clearer reflections of You. Amen.