Breaking the Word

3^rd Week of Advent, Thursday – 15^th December 2022 — Gospel:  Lk 7,24-30

Hero of Fortitude

In the gospel, Jesus presents three questions concerning John and his role. It is obvious that the first doesn’t need an answer because the answer is obvious. No one goes into the wilderness to see a common factor, reeds shaken by the wind. The second is answered but its inadequacy is shown immediately. Those who wear fine clothes are not found in places like the wilderness, the place where John preached. The third answer, that John is a prophet, is also inadequate because John is more than a prophet; his coming was prophesied by scripture. John is greater because he is the precursor and faithful witness. His strength of character has been forged in the fire of fidelity. His fidelity culminates in the shedding of his blood to do God’s will. His ultimate greatness lies precisely in following God’s plan generously even when everything was not clear. He is an authentic hero of fortitude. This is the reason why the people flocked to the desert to find a prophet, a solid witness of truth, a beacon of hope and a man of God.

3^rd Week of Advent, Wednesday – 14^th December 2022 — Gospel:  Lk 7,18b-23

Fulfillment of the Promise

The disciples sent by John repeat the question of John to Jesus. In his response to them, who had seen many events, including the recent healings performed by him, Jesus lists six prophetic actions: the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news proclaimed to them. These actions are works which both Elijah and Elisha had accomplished, as well as others mentioned in the book of Isaiah. Thus, Jesus manifests that he was more than a prophet and now the fulfillment of all the prophets. Through his response, Jesus said that in him the promises that God made about a Saviour’s coming are being fulfilled. Jesus’ answer ends with a challenge not to have a stereotypical view of him or a preconceived notion that will prevent one from encountering Jesus as he is. Finally, he pronounced blessing on those who will not reject him even though he turns out to be different from what they expected, imagined or hoped for.