“SPRINGS OF LIVING WATER”
Daily Spiritual Reflections
9th December 2021
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THURSDAY, SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT
Is 41: 13-20; Ps 145: 1,9-13; Mt 11: 11-15
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JOHN THE BAPTIST, THE PARAGON OF HUMILITY
The season of Advent is a time to reflect on longing and desire. It is a time of man’s longing. But it also reflects the longing of the Lord for his beloved. In the first reading, Isaiah's tone ranges from a soft-spoken plea, to a desperate moan, and finally to an angry roar. The Lord begs for recognition in all that he has done for his people. The Lord pleads for a relationship: “I am the Lord, your God, who grasp your right hand.” The Lord calls for the attention of us, his beloved.
In today’s gospel, Jesus appreciates John’s audacity and longing for the truth. He says to the crowd, “Among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” John is greatest among the God’s mouthpieces. He had a distinguished role to play in salvation history. As a prophet of his time, he proclaimed the truth and admonished people to repent for their sins. He also prepared the way and introduced the long awaited Messiah to the Israelites. Though he did not witness the passion, death and resurrection of Christ, yet he knew who Jesus was. Being aware of his popularity, he remained humble to make Jesus visible to others.
John mortified himself from best food and clothing to save his time and energy to proclaim the good news of the coming of the Messiah. As compared to his earthly life, he was least among the prophets and the holy men, in terms of riches and possessions. John spoke the truth and gave first place to Jesus in his life. He also called us to witness to Jesus by standing for truth. He was a paragon of humility. It was visible in the simplicity of his life and in his relationship with Jesus. Every time we think of becoming great, let us think of John and remain humble. Every time we wish to float in the pleasures of life, let us think of John and purify our desires and longing for God and his truth.
Response: The Lord is kind and full of compassion, slow to anger, abounding in mercy.
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