The Life and Death of The Baptizer
Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Mt 17:9a.10-13 “The Coming of Elijah”
December 15, 2018 | Saturday
The Gospel narrates that John the Baptist suffered greatly in the hands of those who had civil and religious power and authority during his lifetime. The same lot was experienced by Jesus in his passion and death. The life and death of John the Baptist, then, foreshadowed the passion and death of the Lord himself.
The life and death of the Baptizer had meaning because he lived the purpose of his life – that of being the messenger of God. In the same manner, although on a higher degree, Jesus’ life and death had deep significance for the early Christians because through his proclamation of the kingdom of heaven, light has dawned over the shadow of death! For us Christians, how and where can we find meaning and purpose in our existence so as to make it fruitful and worth living?
