People seeing Jesus in John

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Advent Season: Third Week : Sunday*

*Gospel :Lk 3:10-18*

*First Reading : Zep 3:14-18a*

*Responsorial Psalm :Is 12:2-3, 4, 5-6*

*Second Reading: Phil 4:4-7*

*People seeing Jesus in John*

*1) Crowds perception of Jesus in John*

The Gospel shows that John the Baptist's life and ministry served as a reflection of Jesus

Even though he never claimed to be the Christ, but because his words, actions, people saw Jesus in John. 

John is an example for all of us to reflect Jesus in and through our life 

When our life becomes a mirror for Christ, we really achieve the purpose of our life. 

Can people see Jesus in us as they saw Him in John?

*2) Extraordinary qualities of John*

The Humility of John was something great and exceptional

When asked if he was the Messiah, he humbly responded, “I am not the Christ” (John 1:20). 

He declared his mission: to “prepare the way for the Lord” (Isaiah 40:3).

In John 3:30, he famously said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” 

The virtue of Humility makes us to reflect the image of Christ in and through our life 

*3) How Can People See Jesus in Us?*

*A) By Living in Christ’s Love* 

Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).

When our actions are rooted in selfless love, forgiveness, and compassion, people encounter Christ through us.

*B) Through Our Actions and Words:*

In Matthew 5:16, Jesus teaches, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” 

Our daily actions, choices, and how we treat others reveal whether Christ truly lives in us.

*C) By Bearing the Fruit of the Spirit*

Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit: 

love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

When these qualities are evident in our lives, people see the character of Christ reflected in us.

*4)The important Question*

In the Gospel we have a very important question *What should we do?*

This is a very important question for our life 

Today I must ask for myself.

What should I do to radiate Jesus in and through my life? 

This question is very challenging, which needs a very strict and duscplined way of life 

It is only through the lived life one can become another Christ in this world

*5) My call to radiate Jesus in and through my life*

This the purpose of my life. If I fail in this mission I fail in everything 

Do my actions and words draw others to Christ?

Am I allowing the Holy Spirit to work through me, transforming me into a living reflection of Jesus?

Am I humble and willing, like John, to point people to Jesus rather than seeking recognition for myself?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*