The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, "Behold, the Lamb of God!" The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" (John 1:35–38).

This question is the first thing Jesus says in the Gospel of John. This is the same Gospel that begins with the Word, who was with God, who was God. This is the Word who became flesh and dwelt among us. After that verse, "the Word" is not mentioned again; instead, this Word-made-flesh is named "Jesus" and he speaks words. And the very first words he speaks form this question, asking these two disciples of John what they are looking for.

This is the question that Jesus asks every would-be disciple, and maybe it is a question that never fades away. What do we really want to find? What are we really chasing after? What do our hearts desire? The humility of the Word of God is on full display here: he is the reason and the order for the whole of creation, and he deigns to ask us what we seek. It is worthwhile to pause now and again, especially in prayer, to consider this question truly and honestly.

Prayer: My Lord and My God, if what I desire is not your will for me, then change my heart.