Reflection for Wednesday, Dec. 15
John the Baptist, through his disciples, questions Jesus’ authenticity as the One.
Reflecting on the gospel, I’m reminded of my childhood. I recall adults lecturing me about my penchant for asking questions. Questioning, especially by a girl, was not an attractive quality. It was disrespectful. It was challenging of authority. It was not highly regarded by society then and remains undesirable today.
Admonishments had an impact, although not lasting. As a child I was quieted; I matured and became vocal. Childhood shame was vanquished when adult self-worth prevailed. I turned away from the idea that it was wrong to inquire, instead accepting that it was right and necessary to do so.
As a Christian Catholic, I know God as loving and not one who shames, silences, or rejects those who search their hearts, minds, and souls for truth. Our God wants us to bring our entire selves to Him.
The gift of the gospel reading is that it permits questioning. It seems God’s greatest desire is to be in relationship with us and with our whole expression of emotions, including our doubts.
May Christmas bring us the confidence to search and examine our faith and our lives so we may make a difference in this world.
Marilynn Cruz-Aponte