How many times have we used that phrase in our lives to explain something unexplainable – when something can only be experienced with all the senses to fully comprehend it. As someone who spends countless hours compiling digital scrapbooks to capture a year-in-review or a family vacation, I am prone to show more than I explain. Of course, I still love to provide narration while people experience my visual storytelling. Yet, I want people to know more than our events and itineraries; I want them to somehow share our experiences as well.

 In John 1:35-51; five of the disciples are invited to follow Jesus by actually following the Jesus. Friends and brothers repeat the invitation by Jesus to experience first-hand, what is in store for the life of an Apostle of Jesus. After their generations of head knowledge of scriptures; Jesus in the flesh is inviting John, Andrew, Simon (Peter), Philip, and Nathanael into an experience – not just a spiritual idea.

To John (our author) and Andrew, Jesus says “Come and you will see.”

Having “seen,” Andrew brings (an invitation “to come” implied) his brother Simon (Peter) to Jesus. 

Jesus then invites Philip to “follow” and, in doing so,

Philip invites Nathanael to “come and see.”

There is movement, action, trust and a deeper following before and after encountering the Jesus.


Jesus is relational and experiential.

He is Immanuel – God with us – and therefore; He can be experienced in very tangible ways. John uses the others senses to describe Jesus in his ministry:

  • In John 12:3, Mary anoints Jesus and you can only imagine the smells of that expensive perfume.
  • In John 10:3-4, sheep “listen to his voice” and you can envision the Good Shepherd gently guiding.
  • In John 4:10-15, a woman tastes “living water” and knows what is promised to quench her eternal thirst.
  • In John 13:5, the disciples experience the love and humility of Jesus as he touches and washes their feet.


As you move throughout your week, encountering the “with us” experience of Jesus, Father, and Spirit, take advantage of your own senses. Move your body into a posture that helps you to experience following and listening. Taste the goodness of God’s provision through fasting and feasting. Touch and smell the bounty of creation and the ways His goodness shows itself in your environment.


For further reflection…

Take a moment to listen to the hymn “Be Thou My Vision.” Use this link to enjoy a great visual of God’s beautiful creation.  


by Kris Thulson