Brothers and Sisters,

 

Our Scripture readings today, the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, call us to be witnesses of Jesus Christ. The Prophet Isaiah was told, “I will make you a light to the nations that my salvation may reach the ends of the earth.” (First reading) The responsorial Psalm (Psalm 40) speaks of announcing God’s justice to the vast Assembly. Paul encourages the Corinthians to give witness to their faith as they wait for the return of the Lord (Second Reading). John the Baptist steps aside and gives witness to Christ, “Behold the lamb of God… I have seen and testified that he is the son of God.” (Gospel reading)

 

Before the Lord Jesus ascended into heaven, His last words were, “You will receive power when the holy Spirit comes upon you and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. (Acts 1:8). Witnessing was a command, not a choice. The disciples boldly testified, “we were eyewitnesses from the beginning” (Luke 1:2).

 

The late Pope Francis reminds us, “Christianity is not a school of ideas or a collection of beautiful temples and lovely art; it is a living people who follow Jesus and gives witness to him every day. We are not a religion of ideas, of pure theology, of beautiful things and commandments. No, we are a people who follow Jesus Christ and gives witness -- that is, want to give witness to Jesus Christ -- and this witness sometimes ends up being giving one's life."

 

A witness testifies to what is seen or heard and verifies what is true. In court, a witness must swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, so help him God. Isaiah says, “the Lord says, I will make you a light to the nations.” He witnesses to what he heard. John the Baptist says, “I saw the spirit come down like a dove from heaven and rest upon him.” He witnesses to what he saw. It takes humility and courage to step aside and give witness to someone else and to let another have the first place.

 

Several factors may prevent us from witnessing. Cultural pressure makes people hesitant. Many assume that witnessing creates intolerance. Witnessing about the cross of Christ is foolishness to those who don’t believe. The fear of losing friends silences a witness. The insecurity of not having the right answers for other religions prevents some from sharing their faith. In many parts of the world, persecution is a threat. Other times a lack of conviction prevents us from witnessing. The failure to live a consistent Christian life negates a convincing witness. We must pray that God make us all faithful witnesses and have the courage to give witness.

​

To read more of this Sunday’s reflection, please click on the links below…..