Lead others to Christ, the light, like John the Baptist

January 02, 2025 Thursday of the Christmas Week
Memorial of Saints Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Church
Daily Readings: 1 John 2:22-28; John 1:19-28

The liturgical readings today from 1 John 2:22-28 and John 1:19-28 shed light on identity, authenticity, and the assurance of faith. In these passages, the Apostle John warns against false claims about Christ, stating that those who deny Jesus are outside the truth. This is more than a doctrinal error; it is a rejection of the divine.

In the Gospel of John, we find John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, standing as a guide leading to Jesus, the light and truth. Asserting with humility, “I am not the Christ,” his proclamation reflects a profound understanding of his purpose: “to guide others to Christ.” In a digital world often distanced from spiritual truths, John the Baptist serves as a model of fidelity to Christ’s identity. His witness underscores why we should acknowledge Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit in understanding who we are in Christ.

In our divided world, the Gospel offers us the truth. We can approach God’s presence with confidence if we remain united with the divine, as emphasized by the Apostle John in both readings. Our identity is secure in God, who is faithful. Therefore, we are called to bear witness, pointing others toward Christ’s love through our steadfast faith.

A Call to Action for Catholic Living: Stay rooted in Christ’s truth, like John the Baptist, by humbly bearing witness to His love and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your identity and faith in a divided world.