REFLECTION/HOMILY OF MONDAY 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B
REFLECTION/HOMILY OF MONDAY 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B
HOMILY THEME: “THE LORD CALLED ME BEFORE I WAS BORN…”
BY: Bishop Anthony Ewherido
Isaiah 49:1-6; Acts of the Apostles 13:22-26; Luke 1:57-66, 80
On the celebration of the birth of John the Baptist, we recall God’s wonders, especially the angel’s words to Mary that “With God, nothing is impossible.” The old woman, who used to be barren, now has a boy. The old man, who laughed at God at the mention of him having an offspring and was struck dumb, now speaks, prophesies and praises God at the sight of his new born son. God’s wonders brought new joy to their lives; not only to them but also to neighbors and to the rest of humanity.
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Today’s celebration builds on Early Church and Biblical traditions of the relationship between Jesus and John the Baptist, preserved in the gospels, especially, Luke’s gospel (chapters 1 &2), where we have parallel narratives of the conception, birth, naming and early life of both great figures, marking the end of the old era and the beginning of a new era. John’s mission as precursor of Jesus was in God’s plan long before his birth. As precursor, he worked faithfully and tirelessly, announcing and preparing for the Messiah’s coming. He pointed him out when he came and humbly submitted to his presence before bowing out the scene. John’s humble, but feisty and vibrant personality was put at the service of his mission. He teaches us loyalty, courageous witness and humility, since we too were chosen by God from birth. From him, we learn that the Lord must increase while we must decrease; that Jesus is at the center of the mystery of God’s saving grace, and that our lives (word, thoughts and actions) must direct others to Jesus. When our mission and witness are done, may we be able to rejoice as mere servants, friends of the bridegroom in whose joy we share.
Lord, give us humility and spiritual maturity. Amen.
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