Sent As Witnesses

 

 Luke 7: 24-30

 More Than A Prophet

²⁴ When John's messengers had gone, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? ²⁵ What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are dressed in splendid clothing and live in luxury are in kings' courts. ²⁶ What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. ²⁷ This is he of whom it is written,

“‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face,
    who will prepare your way before you.’

²⁸ I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” ²⁹ (When all the people heard this, and the tax collectors too, they declared God just, having been baptized with the baptism of John, ³⁰ but the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the purpose of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.)

John's mission was clear:  he was to prepare the way of the Messiah, who turned out to be his cousin, Jesus, who made it clear as well that we too, even the least of us, is also called to the mission of being witnesses who  by their lives will make known the kingdom of God.  It is a kingdom of love, acceptance, peace and joy.  A glance at today's world reveals that certainly, this kingdom is not yet fully established.  What can I do today to make that kingdom, at least in my small corner of the world, a reality as I send Christmas cards, shop for girts or attend Christmas parties?

Bro. Rene

Lord, John the Baptist was no reed swayed by the wind. He prepared the way before you by his preaching, and died a martyr’s death. Now it is up to us to continue your work of salvation by the lives we lead and the witness we give. Help us do so with faith and courage. Amen.

Rev. Thomas McNally, C.S.C.