I Myself did not know Him. How to Understand this?

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Christmas Season:   Jan 3rd : Saturday*

*Gospel :  John 1:29-34*

*First Reading : 1John 2:29-3:6*

*Responsorial Psalm : 98:1-6*

*I Myself did not know Him. How to Understand this?*

*1) What does “I did not know Him” mean?*

John the Baptist did know Jesus as a person—they were relatives (Luke 1:36).

What John means is that he did not know Jesus was the Messiah (the Son of God) by human knowledge or family connection.

The true identity of Jesus was revealed to him by God.

*2) Ways Through Which John Came to Know Jesus*

*A) Divine Revelation from God*

John clearly states that the One who sent him to baptize told him in advance the sign by which the Messiah would be known (John 1:33). This shows that knowing Jesus is first a gift from God, not a human discovery.

We often think we can “figure out” God on our own. John reminds us that faith begins when we allow God to reveal Himself to us.

*B) The Sign of the Holy Spirit*

At Jesus’ baptism, John saw the Holy Spirit descend and remain on Him (John 1:32). This visible sign confirmed God’s promise.

God speaks through signs—sometimes dramatic, sometimes quiet. 

Are we attentive enough to recognize the movements of the Spirit in our lives?

*C) Obedience to His Calling*

John was faithful to his mission before he fully understood everything. 

By obeying God’s call to baptize and prepare the way, John was placed in the right moment to recognize Jesus.

Often clarity comes after obedience, not before. When we are faithful in small duties, God reveals greater truths.

*D) Personal Encounter*

It was during a real encounter—baptizing Jesus—that John truly came to know who He was.

We come to know Christ not only through teachings, but through personal encounters in prayer, sacraments, and daily life.

*E) Inner Conviction and Testimony*

After seeing the sign, John boldly testified: “This is the Son of God” (John 1:34).

True knowledge of Christ leads to witness. When we truly know Him, we cannot remain silent.

*3) Relevance in the Present-Day Context*

*A) Knowing About Jesus vs. Knowing Jesus* : Many today know Jesus culturally or intellectually, but not personally. John reminds us that real knowledge comes from God, not from familiarity alone.

*B) Need for Discernment in a Noisy World* :In a world full of opinions and distractions, John teaches us to listen for God’s voice and discern the movement of the Spirit.

*C) Faith Through Obedience, Not Convenience* : John’s life challenges modern believers who seek clarity without commitment. Today too, obedience often precedes understanding.

*D) Role of the Holy Spirit Today* :Just as John needed the Spirit to recognize Jesus, we need the Spirit to recognize Christ in the poor, the suffering, and the marginalized.

*E) Call to Witness with Humility* :John points away from himself toward Christ. In an age of self-promotion, his humility is a powerful model for Christian discipleship.

Am Ready to Follow John's Model? 

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*