Memorial of Saint John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church
Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Mt 11: 11-15
December 14, 2023 | Thursday
I tell you this: no one greater than John the Baptist has arisen among the sons of women, and yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven is something to be conquered and violent men sieze it.
Up to the time of John, there was only prophesy: all the prophets and the Law; and if you believe me, John is indeed that Elijah, whose coming was predicted. Let anyone with ears listen!
Today’s Reflection:.
TIn today’s reading, we hear the Lord utter these words: “Let anyone with ears listen!” Prophets are God’s spokespersons. They announce messages that are not their own but God’s. What they announce is the truth, often an uncomfortable truth that people were wary to hear. John the Baptist, being the last prophet of the Old Testament, continued the tradition of the prophets who announced God’s message to His people unfiltered and without sugarcoating. Just like Elijah before him, he challenged people to return to God through repentance. This Advent season, let us reflect on what we need to change in ourselves in order to return to God. / Vulnerasti, 2023
