Meditation Minute

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

“You were content to rejoice in his light.”

Gospel Reading: John 5:33-36

Jesus said to the Jews: "You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth. I do not accept testimony from a human being, but I say this so that you may be saved. John was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John's. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me."

According to Jewish tradition, a person requires at least two witnesses to uphold a claim in the courts.  In today’s gospel reading John the Baptist serves as one of many witnesses proclaiming that Jesus is the Christ who comes to open the gates of heaven.  While John’s proclamation was a major announcement of the coming of the new Messiah, it is Jesus’ miracles and works that He performs that provides the greatest testimony of all to his divine authority and mission.  John was “a burning and shining lamp” make straight the way Christ.  John’s mission was to lead his followers to Christ.  While many were led to Christ, some doubted.  Jesus tells his followers, just look around and see all the good that is done in the name of the Father in heaven.  That should be the greatest proclamation of all.  There is no greater light then that of a miracle.  Miracles happen every day around us; however, we are too busy to stop and see the light.  The small whispers of God’s great mercy plays out around us and we chose not to see his mighty works.  We should take time to stop and rejoice in the light.  We should take the time to stop and see God’s miracles.  In this time of Advent, a time of joyful anticipation, we should open our eyes to see the light of his salvation.

A Simple Prayer

Christ, you are the light and the way,

Open my eyes so I can see your great works.

May they stir in me the joy and happiness of a renewed faith.

Yours in Christ

Michael Marcon