Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint 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.
Witness
1. Testimony. Life reflects everything you have experienced and embraced. Continue to pursue what brings you happiness, but above all, seek what truly sustains and enriches your spirit and your way of living. Remember, your testimony may be the only gospel some people ever witness. This is central to your journey and your way of life: always seek out what adds purpose to your world and your plans. Still, ensure that your goals and dreams are firmly grounded in the living Christ.
2. What do you say for yourself? As the year begins, take time to recognize who you are and consider what you hope to accomplish. The outcome of this year—whether you end it as a hero or otherwise—depends on your choices. Your actions and decisions shape how others see you. Allow yourself the chance to reflect more deeply on your own life, and from that self-awareness, become more generous toward others.
3. He baptized. The “baptism” of your life will always be about rising again and converting. Each year brings new changes to make, and it is important to look within to discover what needs to be illuminated. True strength for your outward actions comes from addressing what lies deep within your heart. May you live this year with a heart dedicated to touching others and easing their burdens.
Never forget that something good is on the way!
God bless you, be with you and protect you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
