Is 35:1-6
Ps 145
Jas 5:7-10
Matt 11:2-11
REJOICE IN THE LORD
Today’s Gospel discusses three figures: John the Baptist, Jesus, and us. John, the forerunner, announces Christ’s advent through his words, life, and virtues. Jesus called John the greatest born of women, as he identified Christ when He came, unlike many prophets who only foretold. Yet, Jesus said we are greater than John because we are reborn in baptism, with Christ’s Spirit to emulate Him. John’s firmness and discipline, like a redwood, made him unwavering, unlike reeds swayed by secular winds. Though disciplined, John was not rigid; he questioned Jesus’ methods when his expectations of a militant Messiah were unmet, leading him to doubt.
Jesus reassured him through miracles, emphasizing peace over power. During Advent, we should follow John’s discipline, humility, and honesty, preparing our souls for Christ’s humble, peaceful entrance. Christ’s coming promises true liberation—healing deaf ears, opening blind eyes, freeing hearts—if we accept His arrival with humility, even when it differs from our expectations we shall be rewarded with peace, comfort and joy.
Fr Joseph Osho