Tomorrow begins what is often called “Late Advent” or “Deep Advent”; the Scripture readings and orations begin to take on different tones and topics. The first part of Advent proclaims that Christ is coming, this last part of Advent focuses on who is coming.
Over the last few days, we have heard daily of John the Baptist, who pointed to Jesus. John the Baptist dresses, acts and speaks pointing directly to the promised One.
In the Gospel today, Jesus explained how John testified to the truth. He bore witness that Jesus was the Lamb of God, the Son of God, the one anointed with the Holy Spirit. For this reason, Jesus called him “a burning and shining lamp” (Jn 5:35). Could Jesus say the same about us?
We become burning lamps for Christ when we observe what is right, do what is just, and engage in acts of love. We do all these good deeds not for the purpose of gaining honor for ourselves, but to point to the one who has set us on our way; by our works of love, we witness to the One who is Love.
As the light of the sun is seen less and less during these late December days, let us shine forth with the light of the Son of God by praying a little harder, giving a little more, and striving to walk in the ways of righteousness, justice, and peace.