This week, we have been reflecting on the life and ministry of John the Baptist. He is one of the first figures we encounter in the New Testament. Sent by God as a witness, he points others to Jesus – taking no credit for himself.
We might not remember that John was Jesus’ cousin – or a relative –
depending on your translation, let us say that he was family. There are many similarities between John and Jesus besides being family. Right from the beginning, the Scriptures relate both unlikely pregnancies. An angel informed Zechariah and Mary that they would have a child. Both instructed their children’s names when they went to the temple.
In his pointing to Jesus, John was not only living
his call from God to announce Christ. But I wonder if, as a relative, John was not also proud of his cousin? Did John have a sense that he had his cousin Jesus’ back? Later in the Gospel, when imprisoned, we know that John questioned Jesus. He may have wondered if he did the right thing by preaching Jesus as the Messiah. In this moment, we see the human side of a relationship, which is often hidden from us when we think about Biblical characters. I wonder, was Jesus left feeling sad when John
seemed to doubt him?
At this time of the year, many families get together. Sometimes, these gatherings are beautiful celebrations. For others, they might be fraught as the usual family tensions surface. We have moments when we are proud of and have the backs of our family members. But there are also disagreements, doubts and times when we get angry with family members.
Sometimes, we rejoice in our close relations, and there is unity. At other times, fences may need mending because of the disagreements and hurt of the past. Maybe, for some, the hurts of the past are difficult to move from, and so this time of the year is one that people face with anxiety and fear.
Take a few moments today to think about
those you are grateful for in your family. Give God thanks. Recall those you find challenging to deal with – perhaps those who have hurt you – and ask God to show you what you should do. Pray for healing if that is what you desire – or ask the Lord to soften your (and their!) hearts.
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The Jesuit Institute wishes you and your loved ones a hope-filled Christmas and blessed beginning to 2024. Please note this is our last Daily Encounter reflection for 2023. The reflections will resume on 15 January 2024.
Reflections by Russell Pollitt SJ
