The Gospels succinctly describe the calling of John and his brother James by Jesus. Their immediate response to Jesus’ call is highlighted by them leaving their boat and their father Zebedee to follow Him, as narrated in Matthew 4:21-22.
Peter, James, and John, former fishermen, shared a special bond with Jesus. They were the only disciples present at pivotal events like the Transfiguration, the resurrection of Jairus’s daughter, and Jesus’ agony in Gethsemane. John’s relationship with Jesus was particularly profound. He is referred to as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” in his own Gospel (John 13:23; 19:26; 20:2), and he held the unique honor of being entrusted with the care of Jesus’ mother as per John 19:26-27.
Traditionally, John is credited with authoring the Fourth Gospel, three epistles, and the Book of Revelation. However, modern scholars often question whether the apostle and the evangelist are the same person. John’s Gospel is known for its theological depth, earning him the metaphorical title ‘the eagle of theology.’ This Gospel presents a divine perspective of Jesus, even in the accounts of His earthly life.
Despite their close association with Jesus, the Gospels also reveal the human side of John and James, who were nicknamed by Jesus as “sons of thunder.” This nickname is reflected in two notable incidents. The first incident involves their mother’s request for them to have places of honor in Jesus’ kingdom, to which Jesus teaches about true authority and service (Matthew 20:27-28). The second incident is their suggestion to call down fire from heaven on inhospitable Samaritans, which Jesus rebukes (Luke 9:51-55).
John also plays a crucial role in the events following Jesus’ resurrection. He is one of the first to reach the empty tomb, as described in John 20:2-8. Along with Peter, John witnesses and participates in early miracles after the Resurrection, such as the healing of a man born crippled. Their boldness and unmistakable association with Jesus leave a significant impression, as noted in Acts 4:13.
In summary, the Apostle John emerges as a pivotal figure in the New Testament, not just for his close relationship with Jesus but also for his human qualities and his significant contributions to early Christian teachings and literature.
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No ever laster beyong truth yet forth for kingdom of heaven ..M..
Oh Saint John, pray for us to be resurrected into Heaven to be at the foot of the throne of the most High, Jesus Christ. I long to see the face of Christ. I long to worship him in Heaven alongside you and all the Saints and Angels in Heaven. Please pray to take my anxiety away. Please pray to heal us of all diseases and troubles of mind. Tell Jesus ‘hi’ and tell him that I love him. I know he already knows this, but I want to tell you, as well. Thank you Saint John. I feel your presence near me. I cannot wait to spend eternity in Heaven with you. Amen
Praying for the abducted girls in Nigeria, may they be returned to their homes safely, praying for world peace, for healing, for those who cannot pray for themselves, for the Holy Father’s intentions and my personal intentions we pray trusting and believing in Jesus Christ, Mary Help of Christians, pray for us.
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pray for us
PRAYER (traditional language)
Shed upon thy Church, we beseech thee, O Lord, the brightness of thy light; that we, being illumined by the teaching of thine apostle and evangelist John, may so walk in the light of thy truth, that we may at length attain to the fullness of life everlasting; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
PRAYER (contemporary language)
Shed upon your Church, O Lord, the brightness of your light; that we, being illumined by the teaching of your apostle and evangelist John, may so walk in the light of your truth, that at length we may attain to the fullness of eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
St. John, pray for us!
PRAYER TO ST JOHN THE EVANGELIST
O glorious Apostle, who, on account of thy virginal purity, was so beloved by Jesus as to deserve to lay thy head upon His divine breast, and to be left, in His place, as son to His most holy Mother: I beg thee to inflame me with a most ardent love toward Jesus and Mary. Obtain for me from our Lord that I, too, with a heart purified from earthly afflictions, may be made worthy to be ever united to Jesus as a faithful disciple, and to Mary as a devoted son, both here on earth and eternally in heaven. Amen.
Pray that my private intentions previously posted here to be answered soon.
Saint John, pray for us amen.