Similar to the crowd, we too may have grasped for any justification to avoid admitting to our addiction and entering recovery. One of my common excuses was figurative assassination of the concerned messenger’s character (just like the crowd with John and Jesus). I would also claim that if Jesus really cared about me my life would be easier. Despite my denial of Him, Jesus never stopped pursuing me.

Our response to our life’s situations and even God’s working in our lives depends on our internal disposition. I was still scared to trust God but, eventually, fellow travelers in recovery shared their experience, strength, and hope, and their unlikely stories of transformation encouraged me to give a relationship with Jesus a chance. I came to know the truth that He loves me, forgives me, will never leave me, and has written my name in heaven. I also learned that our powerlessness and weaknesses don’t scandalize Him but actually console Him when we give them to Him. Jesus knows what we are like, yet He also sees what we can become. He is never in despair over any of us, and this is unfathomably good news! May we never despair of ourselves or others but hold fast to the same hope our Lord does.

Reflection Questions

• As we see in today’s Gospel reading, many found Jesus’ message too hard to hear. Is there an area of your life where God is speaking to you and inviting you out of your comfort zone? How do you sense God pursuing you this Advent?
• How much are you willing to put yourself out there for the love of God as John and Jesus did?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 48:17-19
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 1:1-2, 3, 4 AND 6
Gospel: Matthew 11:16-19

Reflection by Stephanie N.