Where Are You Staying?

Dave Lee (St. Timothy Presbyterian Church)

This was the question that Andrew and the unnamed disciple posed to Jesus when he asked them, “What are you looking for?” (John 1:38). Sometimes, the questions we ask reveal our innermost desires. It wasn’t that the disciples were concerned with finding out exactly where Jesus was going to spend the night; they simply wanted to stay with him, wherever he went.

‘Stay’ is an important word in the Gospel of John. The same word is used when Jesus later says to his disciples: “Remain in me, as I also remain in you” (John 15:4). It is a word laden with spiritual meaning—one of deep intimacy and connection with the Other.

We live in a culture that neither values or encourages ‘staying’ in anything. Scrolling has become our default mode of living. We rush endlessly from one thing to the next. We know everything superficially and nothing deeply. Our modern life has severed our connection with the contemplative dimension of human existence. We have become like chaff, blown and tossed by the wind.

The life of discipleship is not necessarily about being productive and active. It is about staying with Jesus: walking with him, listening to him, and spending time with him. Without staying, there is no such thing as learning. Without staying, there is no such thing as discovery. Without staying, there is no such thing as genuine transformation. Our journey of faith atrophies into fragmentary, disconnected moments without meaning.

In this Lenten season, may we learn to slow down and stay with Jesus. It was by staying with Jesus that eventful day that the disciples came to see him in a whole new light: “We have found the Messiah!” (John 1:41). Apart from him, we can do nothing. Jesus will teach us, guide us, and equip us in all things.