Monday After Epiphany Sunday 

1 John 3:22-4:6
Psalm 2:7-8,10-11
Matthew 4:12-17,​23-25

AGAINST ALL ODDS, BE PROACTIVE IN THE MISSION OF CHRIST

In the today’s gospel narrative, we witness the significant impact of John the Baptist’s imprisonment on Jesus’ ministerial trajectory. Although Herod’s silencing of John represents a critical juncture, it catalyzes Jesus to amplify John’s prophetic message. The gospel opens with the alarming news of John’s arrest, which serves as a sobering reminder to Jesus of the inherent risks involved in prophetic ministry and the necessity for societal transformation.

This pivotal moment seems to compel Jesus to embrace a more proactive stance in his public ministry. Departing from Nazareth, he embarks on a broader mission and actively adopts John’s exhortative message, notably calling the populace to repentance. This initial charge, however, is merely the foundation upon which Jesus will elaborate and transform this core theme.

He will extend the call for repentance to encompass all individuals, envisioning a radical invitation to partake in the ‘reign’ of God present in our world, while simultaneously foreshadowing the eschatological fulfillment in the kingdom of heaven.

What are the significant challenges you encounter in your life? Do they serve as obstacles that hinder your progress or as defining moments that shape your character? Consider the daily struggles that may appear to impede your advancement. In these instances, it’s crucial to adopt a proactive approach to addressing your tasks. This is where the divine presence manifests, offering spiritual support and a wealth of resources to help us navigate these trials.

PROACTIVE PRAYER

Merciful God, grant me the grace to go over the hurdles of life and boost my performance. Show me how to be proactive with my time, purposeful with my energy, and prayerful with the work of my hands -this is the least I could do in response to the immense grace, I am given everyday. With this gift of life I am given, my gift back to You is how I steward it. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho