Daily Reflections - December 27,2012

HE SAW AND HE BELIEVED

 

The other disciple we hear about in today’s Gospel is none other than John, the beloved disciple who leaned at the chest of Jesus at the Last Supper. He was the one who endured the sight of Jesus until His dying breath. It was this beloved disciple to whom Jesus gave His mother.

Having heard of the empty tomb pronounced by the women, John hurriedly runs to see for himself the site where Jesus lay. Of course in his youthful energy he arrived first yet waits for Peter. No statement is made. Peter the first disciple sees the empty tomb with the linen clothing on the ground. While John, on the other hand, sees and believes. This is the essence of the faith of the beloved — he sees and he believes.

Within this octave, the Church brings us forward to the Resurrection, 30 years after the birth of Jesus. Jesus has lived, died and been raised from the dead. Just a few days ago we remember Him lying in a manger as a baby. Now He is nowhere to be seen three days after dying on the cross. Although rumors have it (from the women) that Jesus has indeed risen. John, the disciple in the Gospel we hear about today, was one of the special three. Peter, James and John often accompanied Jesus in the more special moments.

John was given amazing insight into the mystery of the person of Jesus because his heart was pure, untainted and willing to be with his beloved Master. Right up until the death of Jesus, John did not depart. It was because of this purity that the disciple whom Jesus loves sees and believes at the sight of the empty tomb.

We too must pray for purity of heart so that we can see and believe. We won’t see Jesus as John did, but with eyes of faith wide open, our hearts will believe that Jesus is the Word made Flesh among us. He is no longer in the tomb where they lay Him. The Jesus born in Bethlehem, who suffered and died, is truly risen and walks among us today.Fr. Brian Steele, MGL

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: Do I believe in Jesus?

 

Lord, You were born out of love for us; You died out of love for us; You rose from the dead out of love for us. Thank You, Jesus, for Your love. Amen.