Day 1 Readings and Reflection by Fr. Jim Loughran, SA, Director of the Graymoor Ecumenical and Interreligious Institute
Called by God: “You did not choose me but I chose you” (John 15:16a)
- Genesis 12:1-4, The call of Abraham
- John 1:35-51, The call of the first disciples
The start of the journey is an encounter between a human being and God, between the created and the Creator, between time and eternity.
Abraham heard the call: “Go to the land I will show you.” Like Abraham we are called to leave that which is familiar and go to the place that God has prepared in the depths of our hearts. Along the way, we become more and more ourselves, the people God has wanted us to be from the beginning. And by following the call that is addressed to us, we become a blessing for our loved ones, our neighbors, and the world.
The love of God seeks us. God became human in Jesus, in whom we encounter the gaze of God. In our lives, as in the Gospel of John, God’s call is heard in different ways. Touched by his love, we set out. In this encounter, we walk a path of transformation – the bright beginning of a relationship of love that is always started anew.
Jesus Christ, you seek us, you wish to offer us your friendship and lead us to a life that is ever more complete. Grant us the confidence to answer your call so that we may be transformed and become witnesses of your tenderness for the world. Amen.
You may also visit the GEII website at geii.org to find about more about the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.