Today’s first reading is about being on guard against idols. An idol is anything that takes the rightful place of God in our lives. An idol is anything that preoccupies us and keeps us from focusing on Jesus. An idol is anything that prevents us from experiencing the reality of God in its fullness in our lives.
St. John tells us in this reading that it is not only our duty to stay away from idols, but it is also our duty in Christ to help others stay away from them too. There is a fine but real line between minding our own business and loving fratternal correction. Who would not want to notify someone that the bridge ahead is out – if it is out – and the person is racing toward the spot with careless abandon!
In the gospel passage, we see that in the exchange between John and his questioner, John the Baptizer was tempted to idolize himself – quite literally to take the place of Jesus – but he refuses to do this, and tells his hearers that he (Jesus – the other one who was apparently performing ceremonial washings) must increase and I must decrease. John always knew who he was and more importantly who he wasn’t.
As we prepare today for the celebration of the Baptism of Jesus, let us reflect upon how marvelous it was for a real, true, genuine light to dawn for a people who sat in darkness – for generations! Let us also remember, that we are a part of that people – and that we must do all we can to preserve the presence of that light in our lives!
The Light is nourished and fed by the communion that we receive at this Mass – thank you God for providing this means to stay in touch with you!
No comments:
Post a Comment