Deacon Steven Johnson’s Reflection – December 9, 2021
Homily for 2nd Week of Advent, Thursday, 12-9-21, Year C;
Optional Memorial – Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin
Readings: Is 41:13-20, Ps 145, 1, 9-13ab, Gospel Mt 11:1-15
Theme: Least In Heaven
The least of those who are in heaven are greater than the most holy here on Earth. St. John the Baptist knew this and proclaimed a time of repentance in anticipation of the One who was coming. By his office, ordained him by God in the womb of Elizabeth, John the Baptist took his role as the greatest among those who were born of women. As Jesus says, he was the greatest among the people of earth yet beneath those already in Heaven. St. John the Baptist lived a life of simple poverty but stored up great wealth in Heaven through his preparation for Jesus’s coming.
We all can take a cue from St. John the Baptist and know that no matter how great we think we are here on earth, we are still beneath those who are already in Heaven. Be like St. John, prepare your way for the Lord and secure your place among those saints in Heaven. Live a simple life of love and repentance with the goal of meeting Jesus in Heaven soon.
Saint James Catholic Church 