The Fruit of Faith To Testifying of Jesus Christ

Missionary Reflection
2nd Ordinary Sunday, 15 January 2023
Isa. 49:3,5-6; Ps. 40:2,4ab,7-8a,8b-9,10; 1Cor. 1:1-3; John 1:29-34

Today’s Gospel tells how John the Baptist testified who Jesus was. “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin from the world.” At his time John had been well-known among the people for his teachings. He had a number of followers and disciples. On the contrary, Jesus’ presence was not much known.  However, John humbly testified of who Jesus was.

Because of his faith, John could sense the real Jesus. John was not blinded by his fame. On the other hand, he humbly testified that Jesus was the Son of God. “… I did know Him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.”

Through our baptism, we should also have the courage to humbly testify of Jesus in our lives. Who is the real Jesus that we believe? So with this realization, we are enabled to present Jesus through ourselves, our work, our words, and our deed. May Jesus whom we believe is made known to others through our presence.

So, let us pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to give us more courage to share a clear testimony of our faith in Jesus Christ. God bless us.

(Br. Kornelius Glossanto, SX – Xaverian Missionary)

DAILY DEDICATED PRAYER

Lord, our Father, I present my today prayer, thought, word, work, joy, and sorrow in unity with Your Son, Jesus Christ, who always presents Himself in the Eucharist for the salvation of the world. May the Holy Spirit animating Jesus, also be my guidance and strength today so that I am ready to be the witness of Your love.

Together with St. Mary, Mother of Jesus, and the Church, in particular, I present my prayer for our Pope and apostle prayer of Indonesian Church of this month:

For the purpose of Universal Churches: The educators

We pray that educators may be credible witnesses, teaching fraternity rather than competition and helping the youngest and most vulnerable above all.

For the purpose of Indonesian Churches: Optimism and hope

We pray, may this new year be a time of grace, that encourages us to be optimistic, believe, and hope that the Spirit of God will guide and open our eyes to see opportunities and solutions in any adversities, problems, and challenges we are facing.

Amen