I wonder…
Curiosity as a value is the inherent drive to learn, explore, and understand, fueling personal growth, innovation, deeper relationships, and problem-solving by seeking new knowledge beyond the familiar, which leads to greater creativity, empathy, and life satisfaction. It requires conscious practice to overcome barriers like fear of risk. It’s seen as a fundamental human trait and virtue that unlocks potential and enriches life. It is something that is embedded in the Judeo-Christian tradition.
In the Gospel of John 1:29-42, after his baptism, Jesus is cultivating his posse as he travels into his calling as “the Anointed One”. The would-be disciples are following him and, in curiosity, Jesus asks, ”What are you looking for?” The disciples ask Jesus where he is staying. Jesus invites them to join in the lived experience, saying, “Come and see.”
“Come and see.”
As early as 1956, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. invited, and continues to invite, us to come and see the Beloved Community. Seventy years later, we are yet to live into it. When will we arrive?
“Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”
As we enter the MLK Jr. weekend and holiday as faithful travelers, we will examine – with welcome and curiosity through the Gospel of John – Jesus’s and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s invitations to “come and see.”
I look forward to seeing you at 10 am on 1130 Balclutha, Zoom, or Livestream. Bring a curious traveling companion.
Love,
Rev. Michael