Memorial of Saints Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Church
John 1:19-28
Preparing the Way through witnessing to the Word

In today’s Gospel, we encounter John the Baptist, a man fully aware of his role as a herald of Christ. When questioned by the religious authorities, John humbly denies being the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet. Instead, he identifies himself as “the voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord.’” John’s humility and purpose remind us of our call to prepare others to encounter Christ.

John’s baptism, centred on repentance and purification, pointed forward to the baptism of Jesus, which brings the Spirit of God into the hearts of believers. John’s acknowledgement that he is unworthy even to untie the sandals of the one coming after him teaches us reverence for the mission of Christ—a mission far greater than ourselves.

Like John, we are called to be witnesses to the Light. We are not the source of this Light but are meant to reflect it, guiding others toward the truth and love of Jesus. In doing so, we echo Christ’s words: “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). The example of John the Baptist challenges us to ask, ‘Do I allow the light of Christ to shine through me?’

John’s life of humility and dedication offers us a model. He embraced his role with clarity and conviction, focusing not on himself but on the One he served. In our lives, we too can be voices crying out in the wilderness of a world often clouded by darkness, preparing hearts to receive Jesus.

As we reflect on John’s example, let us seek to embody his courage and humility, ensuring that our actions and words lead others to recognise and follow Christ, the Light of the World.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2024