Daily Gospel Reflection for January 2, 2023

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

Today's Gospel: John 1:19-28

When we are baptized, our soul receives its very first special contact with Christ through the waters of baptism. Christ kisses our soul and calls us into a deep, unique relationship with God.

John the Baptist knew his role in people’s salvation was important. Someone had to be the one to “Make straight the way of the Lord.” However, John the Baptist also knew he was neither Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet.

In his humility, John the Baptist reminds us of our own baptismal call today – to be the voice in the desert of secularism, relativism, unbelief, and sometimes, downright skepticism and anger.

At Mass, we receive a refreshing kiss from Christ, which renews the relationship with Christ which started with our own baptisms. Nevertheless, the world around us would have us second-guess why we should even go to church at all, when "you can worship God anywhere!”

When we approach the doors of the church, we are given the opportunity to speak to the voice in the desert of our times, reminding ourselves, and those around us, that there is Someone greater than ourselves.

At church, we are invited into the humility which John displayed, recognizing that we are not worthy to untie our Savior’s sandal strap.

Yet, we are still very worthy of His mercy, love, and devotion.

Someday, we might find ourselves being asked similarly, “What do you have to say for yourself?”We might be called to account for our activities when we make God a priority.

Take courage and lean into your relationship with God to be ready to humbly answer.

God loves each of us, and He waits eagerly for us to not just turn toward Him, but to also share that love with others.

“Make straight the way . . .”

Ponder:

How can you “Make straight the way of the Lord” as we enter into 2023?

Pray:

Most loving Father, thank You for the opportunity to live in the desert of our times. Grant me the strength and courage to always proclaim Your love for humanity, in the most effective way possible.

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At Mass, we receive a refreshing kiss from Christ, which renews the relationship with Christ which started with our own baptisms. #dailygospel

Copyright 2023 AnnAliese Harry