Saturday after Epiphany
Throughout this Epiphany week we have observed the Christmas star casting its light upon the newborn King of Israel, the long-awaited Messiah and Lord. The gospel selections of the past six days have shown us a variety of reactions as Jesus’ identity was revealed: to three Magi from the Orient; to a threatened King Herod; to a physically and spiritually hungry crowd of followers; to his disciples caught in a storm on the sea; to his fellow citizens of Nazareth; and to a poor leper who recognized the power of the Messiah to heal.
At the conclusion of this week, we are presented with a passage from the gospel of Saint John that recounts the witness of John the Baptist, who truly recognizes the identity of Jesus as the Christ. John’s words are those of a humble prophet: “You yourselves can testify that I said that I am not the Christ, but that I was sent before him. The one who has the bride is the bridegroom; the best man, who stands and listens for him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine has been made complete. He must increase; I must decrease.” (Jn 3:28-30).
John the Baptist’s words, “he must increase; I must decrease,” echo in our hearts today. John, who compares himself to the best man at a wedding, finds his complete joy in Christ’s voice. He steps aside so that the true joy of Christ’s presence can be seen by all.
What could this mean for us in our present situation? Do we find our joy in Christ’s voice? Do we take the time each day to silence our hearts and enter into the presence of the Bridegroom? Do we share our discovery of Christ with others and step out of the way in order to let Jesus’ voice be heard?
For today: Let us pray for the courage to be humble witnesses, to be faith-filled believers who rejoice in the presence of the Bridegroom and share that joy with everyone we encounter.
Reflection by Br. Michael Marcotte, OSB
Posted in Articles for Christmas, Daily Reflections