of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Week Three of Advent – Friday, December 16, 2022

Week Three of Advent – Friday, December 16, 2022

John – A Lamp Burning Bright (Jn 5:33-36)

Prayer:

O Jesus, I believe that you were sent by the Father.

Imagination:

Picture Jesus speaking to the crowds.

Context:

In Advent, the readings highlight the role of John the Baptist. Jesus calls John a “lamp burning bright” because he testified about Jesus. Yet, Jesus has even greater testimony, the works he performs.

Gospel Text: (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)

Jesus said to the Jews, “You sent to John and he testified about me (I do not accept such human testimony but I receive it for your salvation).  He was a burning and shining light and you were willing for a time to rejoice in his light.

But I have a testimony greater than John, the works which the Father has given me to accomplish. These works themselves which I perform, give testimony that the Father has sent me.”

Thoughts: (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)

  1. The Jewish leaders sought John’s opinion but did not believe him.
  2. John testified to Jesus as best he could, according to his limited understanding.
  3. For John, Jesus was the Lamb of God and the Stronger One who would baptize in the Spirit.
  4. Jesus is much more. He is the Eternal Word made flesh.
  5. Jesus already knew what he came to do. John’s testimony was for the people.
  6. The heavenly Father was a greater witness.
  7. He gave Jesus power to work miracles.

Affections: (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)

  • O Jesus, I believe your gospel testimony.
  • You are the Lamb of God, the Son of God, the Word made flesh.
  • O Father, You so loved the world that you sent Jesus.
  • O Jesus, so many others have told me about you!
  • O Father, all creation witnesses to you and you witness to Jesus.
  •  Jesus, I will be your witness, a burning and shining light for my generation.

Resolutions: (Possibly you might want to make your own.)

+  I will thank the Father for sending Jesus.

+  I will strengthen the faith of others.

Thought for the Day: (To recall your meditation.)

John was a burning and shining lamp.