December 31 - New Year's Eve
"[John] was not the light, but came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world."
- John 1:8-9
Throughout the world, on this last night of the year, many will celebrate with fireworks, sparklers or watch a giant disco ball drop to the tune of "Auld Lang Syne." After hugging and kissing loved ones, we will "Ohhh" and "Ahhhh" as we bear witness to the light dancing in the night.
In today's Gospel reading, we hear John the Baptist's prophetic call to similarly bear witness to the light that is Jesus. We know that John and Jesus lived in dark times: religious factions fought amongst themselves, and the government was corrupt, ruled by external forces. Some might say this sounds eerily like the present day. John shows courage in testifying to the light of Christ. He calls out the rulers of his day for their hypocrisy, names the darkness, and opens the eyes of others to look for the light.
Karla Keppel, MA/MA
Associate Director, Mission Services, CHA
Pause
Who calls us to open our eyes and look for the light today? How can we call others to be attentive to where the light might be calling us to joy and gratitude?
Pray
God, who is hope, shine Your light in our darkness so that we may continue to build Your kingdom. Let us be reflections of Your brilliance, always working to make Your goodness known. In Your Holy Name we pray, Amen.