REFLECTIONS ON THE WORD – 12/9/21 (Thursday)

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Blessed Thursday of the Second Week of Advent! In the gospel reading, Jesus mentioned the greatness of St. John the Baptist. Unlike the other Old Testament prophets, he was always practicing mortification, remaining in the presence of God through prayers, and introducing many people to Christ. And yet, Jesus also reminded His listeners that the least of the kingdom was greater than St. John. In reality, we experience greater privileges than that of St. John the Baptist because we receive the fullness of God's revelation, and we have access to the graces that God give through the sacraments. 

Unfortunately, we may take this for granted when we think going to Mass is enough and deepening our spiritual life is no longer important. For some of us, prayers may be boring, and we don't want to be deprived of satisfactions which is why we may not like to practice any form of mortification. We may even be ashamed of speaking about God. The Lord is telling us to imitate the example of St. John the Baptist, so the graces we receive may not be in vain and may be able to purify our hearts by uniting ourselves more to Christ. 

Just as how we ought to frequent the sacraments, let us always spend time with God in prayers in many moments during the day by detaching ourselves in worldly things. Let us not be ashamed of speaking about God to others if an opportunity arises. Even when we we are criticized because of our faith, let us be firm in following Christ because heaven is awaiting for us. And, we should always humble ourselves and treat ourselves as the least for us to be exalted to His Kingdom.

 Amen +

 

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May God bless us and may He be with us in moments of joys and sufferings. May He grant us the grace of detachment and the gift of prayer to remain in His presence through the intercession of St. John the Baptist. Amen. + 

Reflection by: Dominic