The Memorial of Sts. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Church
This Week’s Intention: That, with the start of a new year, each of us will find new eyes to see one another, new ears to hear one another, and new hearts to welcome and love one another.
Special Intention: For the repose of the soul of Mr. Herman Shum, and for God’s comfort and strength for his family, colleagues, students, and friends.
Today’s Gospel | John 1:19-28
This is the testimony of John. When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, “Who are you?” He admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Christ.” So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?”
He said: “I am the voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as Isaiah the prophet said.” Some Pharisees were also sent. They asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ or Elijah or the Prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water; but there is one among you whom you do not recognize, the one who is coming after me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie.” This happened in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
From the Meditation on St. Gregory of Nazianzen | St. John Baptist de La Salle
Such are the usual consequences of persecutions suffered by those who labor for the salvation of souls. The more they are burdened by difficulties in their apostolic labors, the more conversions God brings about through their ministry and the more effectively they procure the salvation of souls. Do not be surprised, therefore, if in doing your work, you meet with difficulties and contradictions. The more you suffer, the more you ought to be encouraged to fulfill your duties well, because then you can be sure that God will pour out abundant blessings on the work you are doing.
Prayer for the Day
Eternal Father, in the upheaval of today’s world, we often are unable to recognize your presence. Bring light to the confusion in our minds and hearts. Grant us insight and wisdom, so that we might always discern your will for us. Bless our days with the joy of serving others and being your presence to those in need. See us through times of turmoil and struggle, healing our wounds and making us strong in the broken places. May we be for you a faith-filled and steadfast people. We ask this of you who lives and reigns with your Son and the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.
St. John Baptist de La Salle, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts forever.