Daily Catholic Lectio
Sat, 4 January 2025
1 John 3:7-10; John 1:35-42
Three Poles of Discipleship
“Staying with Jesus, showing Jesus to others, and bringing others to Him are the three poles of discipleship.”
The Synoptic Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—depict the calling of the first disciples as a direct initiative from Jesus. He approaches them in their daily lives, calls them, and they immediately follow. The purpose of this call is twofold: “to be with Him and to be sent out to proclaim the Good News and cast out demons” (cf. Mk 3:14-15).
In contrast, the Gospel of John presents a different narrative. Here, the first disciples seek Jesus on their own, spurred by the testimony of John the Baptist. These disciples go, stay with Jesus, and then joyfully proclaim Him to others.
(a) Staying with Jesus
The first words of Jesus in the Gospel of John are, “What are you seeking?” This question is profoundly personal and timeless, echoing in the heart of every believer. Like the disciples, who were unsure of their answer, we too may feel uncertain. Their counter-question, “Rabbi, where do you stay?” reveals a deeper longing—to know and remain with Him. Jesus’ response, “Come and see,” is an open invitation to intimacy.
In John’s Gospel, “staying” or “abiding” emerges as a central theme. True discipleship begins and is sustained by staying with Jesus—dwelling in His presence, His Word, and His love.
(b) Showing Jesus to Others
“People know what we show.” Andrew exemplifies this truth when he tells Peter, “We have found the Messiah.” Andrew’s joy overflows; he cannot keep the experience of Jesus to himself. His testimony becomes a light guiding Peter to the Savior.
(c) Bringing Others to Jesus
Not content with words alone, Andrew takes Peter to Jesus. This personal encounter transforms Peter’s life. Jesus looks at him, renames him Cephas (Peter), and sets him on a new path. Like Andrew, Peter is now called to abide in Jesus, show Him to others, and lead them to Him.
Discipleship expands organically, much like a tree growing through countless branches. From John the Baptist to Andrew, and from Andrew to Peter, the circle of discipleship widens, creating a community centered on Christ.
Reflections on Discipleship
(a) The Three Poles of the Triangle of Discipleship: Staying with Jesus, showing Jesus to others, and bringing others to Him form the three essential dimensions of a disciple’s life.
(b) A Life Pointed to Jesus: Every word and action of a disciple must ultimately direct others to the Eternal Word.
(c) Humility in Discipleship: A true disciple hides behind the Master. John the Baptist directs his followers to Jesus, and Andrew does the same with Peter. A disciple’s role is to lead others to Christ, never overshadowing Him.
Discipleship for All
Discipleship is not reserved for priests and religious. Every person who encounters Christ is called to follow Him. Abiding in Jesus, found in the Scriptures and the Eucharist, is a universal vocation.
As we reflect on this passage, may we embrace our call to discipleship, striving to abide in Jesus, proclaim His love, and draw others to His heart.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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