Daily Thoughts: Perhaps one of
John the Baptist’s most profound sayings which can be found in John’s Gospel
(John 3:30) goes like this, “He (Jesus) must increase and I must decrease.” Why
is this so profound? Well because in it John shows us a humility not found very
often.
Think of our world, when someone rises
to power, fame, fortune the last thing they want to do is let go of control,
step out of the spotlight, and turn things over to someone else. Yet, that is
exactly what John the Baptist does. He is “the man” all eyes are focused on
him, he has center stage and yet once Jesus enters John is willing to step out
of the bright lights and let Jesus take over.
Today we celebrate the birth of John the
Baptist. We remember his coming into the world and how he was dedicated from
conception to be the forerunner, the announcer of Jesus’ presence in the world.
From the very beginning John knows that at some point his presence will no
longer be necessary, his mission will be completed and he will have to decrease.
Remembering John the Baptist reminds us
of our challenge to live as prophets, as disciples of Jesus. Life is not about
us and if we take on the journey of discipleship, of proclaiming the presence
of God we too will all be called to decrease so that God can increase.
Yes, our feast today reminds us that
like John the Baptist, we too are wonderfully made so let us praise God with
the living of our life today so that like John we can be ready to proclaim
God’s presence to whomever we encounter!
Have a great day and may you receive many
blessings in the spirit of John the Baptist today and always. Don’t forget to
make a joyful noise with your life today!
Daily Prayer: O God, it is
hard sometimes to believe that you are really present in this world of ours.
But with the help of your grace we do believe it! So in the spirit of your
faithful prophet, John the Baptist today, please help us to live our life in
such a way that it will be easier for others to recognize you. When we find
doubt, help us to bring a little light. Where we find discouragement, let us be
a ray of hope in the darkness. To those who feel estranged and alienated from
you and your Church, let us be like a bridge and when we encounter people who
have been hurt or feel misunderstood, grace us with the wisdom to leave only
the imprint of your healing love and compassion. Loving God, wherever we go and to whomsoever
we meet, help us to be an instrument of your compassion, love and peace. Amen. (Adapted from a prayer by Sr. Bernice Kuper,
S.P.)
A Runner’s Thoughts: Samuel Shoemaker once said, “Prayer may not
change things for you, but it for sure changes you for things.” Let's make our
next run a prayer and allow ourselves to be changed!
Daily Blessing: Blessings of
this Feast of the Birth of John the Baptist and Happy Tuesday to all! I hope
everyone’s Tuesday has started off well. I hope the sun is shining wherever you
are and that you are moving about today with a lively step and a hopeful
purpose. If not I pray that your day will get better!
We are still in the midst of clouds, fog
and some sunshine here in Manitowoc. The retreat seems to be going well. The
sisters have not thrown anything at me yet and no one has walked out so I am
counting that is a good sign. Please continue to keep the good sisters on
retreat in your prayers and if you can add an extra prayer for the preacher it
would be greatly appreciated!
I pray for God’s blessings today upon
you, your work, your ministry, those whom you meet and those whom you love! May
you enjoy the places you go to, the people you encounter and the experiences
that you have and also know that as you journey through this day you are in my
prayers!
Remember, “Seek God and you will find
God and every good thing as well!” (Meister Eckhart) May you be rich in the
spirit of John the Baptist today. Peace in Christ’s Passion…Fr. Paul
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