Daily reflection from the CPLO and the Jesuit Institute for 9 December 2021

Published: Wed, 12/08/21

Thursday, 9 December 2021

“A man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony, to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.”

~ John 1:6–9 ~

Luke 3:1–6

John the Baptist is a fascinating character in the Gospel. He is the last of the prophets from the ‘Old Age’ before Jesus. But John is also the first of the prophets of the ‘New Age’, as he introduces us to Jesus. He is not the Messiah, but he points beyond himself to the true light of the world – Jesus Christ.

We can learn a lot from John about humility. He gives witness to Jesus, always aware that it is Jesus and the message Jesus proclaims. He never seeks to glorify himself through what he does. Instead, he is always pointing to someone greater than he is.

At Christmas time, the Church seeks to shine the light of Christ out to the world, hoping its radiance will warm hearts and homes.

Perhaps the quotation for today’s reflection can help us consider how we share that light in our own lives.

Are we humbly sharing the light of Christ?

Are we pointing beyond ourselves to a light greater than we are?

Loving Father,

You sent your Son to be the light of the world.

Help us see the light of Christ,

and give us the grace to give witness

to that Light in whatever

we do and say.

Amen.

Reflection prepared by Grant Tungay SJ