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Homily (Reflection) for Weekday of the Christmas Season: 3rd January
(The Most Holy Name of Jesus, Opt Mem)

1Jn 2:29–3:6;
Ps 97:1.3-6. (R. v. 3);
Jn 1:29-34.
Topic: Called to testify (witness).
John saw Jesus in today’s gospel coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”  He went on, “I myself did not know him, but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” He declared in obedience to the truth, cf. Jn 1:33-34.
The gospel tells us that Jesus appointed the twelve, to be with him, and to be sent out to preach, cf. Mk 3:14. And before His ascension into heaven, He said to them, “...you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8). To testify is synonymous with stating the fact, cf. Jn 4:44. 13:21. Hence, in court of law every witness is under oath to say the truth and nothing but the truth.
As we testify, it is necessary that we bear in mind always that Jesus defined Himself thus, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me” (Jn 14:6). In our homily for second (2nd) January, we explained the opportunities before John. He dared all of them for the sake of the truth. He was subsequently praised by Him, cf. Matt 11:11.
Dear friends in the Lord, it is necessary that we go about testifying to the truth we are called to not minding who loses and who gains. God will certainly praise us in heaven. Telling lies is tantamount with denying God. Each of them has its own corresponding reward, cf. Matt 10:32-33; Lk 12:8-9. God knows our hearts. What is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God, cf. Lk 16:15. However, bearing witness is not devoid of persecutions and even death, cf. Mk 6:17-18.27-28.
 Bible Reading: Matt 10:26-33; Mk 6:14-29.
Thought for today: Witness to the truth.
Let us pray: God, give us the courage to stand by the truth always – Amen.

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