Feast of Sts. Basil The Great and Gregory Nazianzen
Readings: 1 Jn 2:22-28 | Ps. 98:1-4 | Jn. 1:19-28
In the first reading, John is calling us to abide in Christ. Doing so, we will know the truth and will not deny that truth, that is, lie. The Gospel tells the story of the Pharisees, who consider themselves the keeper and protectors of the law, questioning John the Baptist about the reason for his baptizing. John the Baptist is the essence of truth and replies that he is not the Messiah, Elijah, or the prophet. He is “… the voice of one crying…make straight the way of the Lord.” John tells the people that he baptizes with water while the one who is to come will baptize with water and spirit and will bring us to God. He continues: “I am unworthy to untie his sandles.” Without a doubt, John knew who he was and did not want to take credit for being more that he was.
We have a wonderful example of true humility in John the Baptist. He is truthful about his identity. We could learn a lesson from John today. Help us Lord to come to know ourselves accurately and not try to claim things that are not ours. Help us to give credit to You for all we are and can be. Help us to love each day, loving and caring for those whom you send to us. Spend time with John the Baptist today and think about the gifts that he possessed. Ask him to pray for you so that you may be humble and truthful in all things.