# Seeking God, Finding God on the Fifth Sunday of Lent
*2009-03-28*

> Bill reflects on John 12:23, exploring why the Greeks approached Philip and how we can be approachable disciples today, and offers a prayer for humility and outreach.

## Why the Greeks Came to Philip

In John 12:23 we read, “Now among those who went up to the festival were some Greeks. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and said to him, ‘Sir, we wish to see Jesus.’” Every time I hear this passage I wonder why the Greeks chose Philip rather than Peter, James, or John, who are often highlighted as the inner circle. Perhaps Philip was simply more approachable—less concerned with his own status and more eager to bring others to Christ. The Gospel shows that when the first disciples discovered Jesus, they ran to tell others. Philip’s willingness to welcome strangers may have been what the Greeks sensed.

## Desiring Philip’s Humble Openness

I don’t claim to be like Peter, James, or John, but I do long to be like Philip—someone whose love for Jesus is obvious yet unassuming, inviting others to come to Him. The question for us is: how can we let others know we have access to Jesus without intimidating them? How can we share our love in a way that invites rather than pushes away?

## Practical Steps for an Approachable Discipleship

Take a moment this morning to pray for approachability. Ask God to make you a living seed in the lives of others, to teach you to surrender your own agenda so that others might encounter Christ through you. Then stay alert for moments when people are seeking—whether they are “Greeks” in your life or simply friends, coworkers, or strangers. When you recognize that seeking, respond with humility and openness.

## Prayer for an Approachable Heart

Approachable God, plant me as a seed in the lives of others. Teach me to surrender my own life so that they might live. Grant me the humility to be a gentle guide, and the courage to invite all who come seeking you.

*May we become approachable disciples, inviting others to encounter Christ through our humble love.*