Daily Reflection Feast of Saint John, Apostle and evangelist
-
December 27, 2023We know from the gospel that John had an intimate relationship with Jesus. He
was not a rabble-rouser apostle who preached fire and brimstone. No, John
evangelized through his example: sitting next to Jesus at the last supper, standing by
the cross with Mary, waiting for his elder, Peter, before entering Jesus’ tomb. John
showed us by his steadfast love all that Jesus had taught him.
The inclusive way that Jesus selected his twelve intimate followers shows how he
honors our individual personalities: his twelve apostles are a great example of this love
and respect. With our varied backgrounds, personalities, and talents, God also calls us
to follow Jesus intimately.
At Jesus’ resurrection, John quietly witnesses to the Easter miracle. He is an
example for us. We, too, witness to Jesus in our own small and unassuming ways:
searching for the good in people—especially our family members, watching our tone of
voice in speaking to people not at them, refraining from rash judgment, being gentle
with ourselves when evil attempts to pull us away from God, and remembering that we
have been given the gift to be Jesus to other people.
In “Christmas Morning” sung by Joyce Rouse, the lyrics capture John’s message in
the first reading, “so that you, too, may have fellowship with us; for our fellowship is with
the Father and his son Jesus Christ.” In his letter today, John encourages us to live this
fellowship that we have with Jesus. In fact, yes, we have become Christ to others.
He’s man and he’s woman
He’s old and he’s young
He’s Buddhist and Christian and Jew
She’s wealthy, she’s poor
She’s black and she’s white
And, oh yes, the Christ child is you.
As we continue to celebrate the birth of Jesus, our focus is not on Jesus as baby,
but on what Jesus is inviting each of us to be and to do. Immersing ourselves in the
spirit of Christ propels us to live what Jesus preached: the beatitudes and works of
mercy—our challenge for 2024.
To listen to the complete song, “Christmas Morning,” click below.
