OUR TESTIMONIES SHOULD LEAD PEOPLE TO CHRIST - 12/16/22 (Friday of the Third Week in Advent)

John 5:33–35

“You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light."

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/121622.cfm

Blessed Friday! St. John the Baptist bore witness to the truth of Jesus Christ. His preaching and baptism prepared the way for people to accept the gospel of our Lord. St. John provided a testimony, both in his words and works, for the necessity of following Christ. At the same time, even though many people became followers of St. John the Baptist, he did not make himself the center of attention. He was a shining and burning lamp. But, the testimony and light of Jesus Christ is greater than that of St. John the Baptist. St. John reflects the light of Christ, and Jesus is the source of this light. As Catholics, we have the duty to proclaim the gospel in our words and deeds for us to be a testimony for our Savior. But, God is always reminding us that our role, if we desire to be instruments of God's mercy for other people, should point the people to Him, not to ourselves. We simply reflect the light of Christ, and God is still the source of it. Jesus is the light of the world. As we come closer to Christmas, we start preparing for this important celebration, and we may also do good for our neighbors. Let's be reminded that Jesus is the center of this important season, and let's rejoice when others come to know Christ better, not because we receive more attention from others, but because this gives greater glory to God. 

Why did Jesus tell about the testimony of St. John to the people? Its because our Lord is concerned for our salvation. As Jesus said in the gospel, "but I say this that you may be saved." This should be our intention when it comes to following Christ and being good models for other people, salvation. Because Jesus Himself is the greatest testimony of God's love for us, this means that we should follow Him and imitate Him for our salvation. Let's stay away from occasions of sins, especially from the temptations of lust and others, by constantly remembering God's presence and seeking His help through prayers. May we accept all of the sufferings in our life with complete confidence in Him just as how He accepted the will of the Father. Jesus came to our world to be a testimony for our salvation. By giving ourselves to Him, we can have the hope of union with our Lord and be good examples so that, when others see our actions done out of love for God, more people will glorify Him and follow Him. Let's ask God to keep us faithful in His testimony and to help us in our life so that we can accept His gift of salvation. 

Amen +

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

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth