It is 24th August 2015. We celebrate the feast day of St. Bartholomew, the Apostle. The readings are from Rev.21:9b-14 and the Gospel is from Jn. 1:45-51. Today’s feast reminds us to bring our friends to Jesus, as St. Philip brought Bartholomew to Jesus. The first reading tries to explain the glory of New Jerusalem, which is our future home where God lives. The vision is symbolic one and including all the 12 tribes of Israel symbolizing the living church. All those who are faithful to God will be living with God. The responsorial Psalm sings, “Your friends make known, O Lord, the glorious splendor of your kingdom.” (Ps145:12). The Gospel presents that how Philip led Nathanael to Jesus. Our friends may have a millions of reasons not to approach Jesus. It is our duty to lead them through our faith, patience, perseverance and charity. As we have experienced Jesus, so we need to lead them to Jesus. Mostly people do not require many explanations about Jesus rather they need an experience with Jesus. Unless we experience Jesus deeply and intimately, we cannot invite someone to have ‘come and see’ experience with Jesus. It is good to invite all those whom we are in contact and be friending Jesus. Jesus knows us before even we meet Him spiritually and personally. Jesus is the ladder (Gen.28:12) who connects us between heaven and earth. Through our faith in Jesus, let us be a ladder to our friends to connect with God. May the Lord Jesus inspire us to lead others to Him. May you have a blessed day.