Daily Gospel Reflection for December 16, 2022

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Kathryn Mulderink

Today's Gospel: John 5:33-36

Jesus would have made an impeccable lawyer. Today’s Gospel is part of his argument against the Jews who refused to accept Him, and Jesus presents this argument in legal terms, citing testimony and evidence. The shining light of the passage is not the legal argument, but Jesus’ beautiful words about St. John the Baptist and the Father.

Of John the Baptist, Jesus says:

“John was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light.”

Obviously, the implication is that the crowd is fickle, and after a while, they no longer wanted to hear John’s preaching, even though it is truth.

Of the Father, Jesus says:

“The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.”

Jesus does nothing on His own, but what the Father tells Him; He does not testify on His own behalf, but allows the truth of His works testify to who He is. Jesus comes from the Father, but the Jews do not want to listen. They want to argue.

“The Father has sent me.”

To understand Jesus and all that He does, we have to understand his why. Why does He do the things He does? The Father is the reason for all of it. Jesus consults with the Father in prayer over and over again, seeking to please and glorify Him in every moment.

In order to conform our own hearts to Jesus’ heart, we must also seek to please and glorify the Father in all we do and think and say. This is the essence of holiness.

Ponder:

In what ways can I better orient my thoughts, words, and actions to pleasing and glorifying the Father in Christ through the Holy Spirit in each moment?

Pray:

Jesus, Your Heart was always focused on the desires and will of the Father. Grant me the grace to seek always to please and glorify the Father, as His beloved child.

Click to tweet:
In order to conform our own hearts to Jesus’ heart, we must also seek to please and glorify the Father in all we do and think and say. #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Kathryn Mulderink

Kathryn Mulderink, MA, is mother of seven, grandmother of four, and a Secular Discalced Carmelite. She has published five books. Over 30 years, she has worked in school and parish administration, and as a writer and voice talent for Catholic Radio. Currently, she serves the Church as a writer and speaker, helping others encounter Christ and engage their faith. www.KathrynTherese.com