A Promise Fulfilled

Gospel

Luke 1:5-25

5 In the days of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah of the priestly division of Abijah; his wife was from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 Both were righteous in the eyes of God, observing all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. 7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren and both were advanced in years. 8 Once when he was serving as priest in his division’s turn before God, 9 according to the practice of the priestly service, he was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary of the Lord to burn incense. 10 Then, when the whole assembly of the people was praying outside at the hour of the incense offering, 11 the angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right of the altar of incense. 12 Zechariah was troubled by what he saw, and fear came upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall name him John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He will drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even from his mother’s womb, 16 and he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 He will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.” 18 Then Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel said to him in reply, “I am Gabriel, who stand before God. I was sent to speak to you and to announce to you this good news. 20 But now you will be speechless and unable to talk until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled at their proper time.” 21 Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zechariah and were amazed that he stayed so long in the sanctuary. 22 But when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the sanctuary. He was gesturing to them but remained mute. 23 Then, when his days of ministry were completed, he went home. 24 After this time his wife Elizabeth conceived, and she went into seclusion for five months, saying, 25 “So has the Lord done for me at a time when he has seen fit to take away my disgrace before others.” 

Historical Background

Luke situates the story “in the days of Herod, king of Judea,” a period marked by political tension, Roman domination, and spiritual longing among the Jewish people. Herod’s rule was known for grand building projects but also paranoia and brutality. The people longed for God’s intervention.

Zechariah belonged to the priestly division of Abijah, one of the 24 priestly groups established in ancient Israel. Priests served in the Temple twice a year, and being chosen by lot to offer incense was a once-in-a-lifetime honor. This moment places Zechariah at the heart of Israel’s worship, in the sanctuary where heaven and earth symbolically meet.

In Jewish culture, barrenness carried deep social stigma. Elizabeth’s “reproach among people” reflects the pain of being misunderstood and judged, despite her righteousness before God.

Theological Context

God Acts in Hiddenness and Silence. The story echoes Old Testament patterns—Abraham and Sarah, Hannah—where God brings life from barrenness. Luke is showing that the age of prophecy is stirring again after centuries of silence.

John the Baptist’s Mission. Gabriel announces that John will come “in the spirit and power of Elijah” to prepare a people for the Lord. This connects John to Malachi’s prophecy and signals that God’s long-awaited salvation is unfolding.

Zechariah’s Silence. His muteness is not punishment as much as a sign—a sacred pause. His inability to speak mirrors Israel’s long silence awaiting God’s voice. When he finally speaks again, it will be to proclaim blessing.

God’s Faithfulness. The passage emphasizes that God remembers His covenant. Even the name “John” (Yohanan) means God is gracious.

Learning Lessons

The angel tells Zechariah that his prayer has been heard. This reassures us that God listens to our prayers and responds in His perfect timing, even if it takes longer than we expect.

Like John the Baptist who was given a specific purpose before his birth, God has a unique plan and purpose for each of our lives, and we are called to fulfill it. His blessings often bring joy not only to us but also to those around us. Let us live a life of holiness that is dedicated to God, filled with the Holy Spirit, and committed to His ways.

Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to trust in God's timing, seek His purpose for our lives, find joy in His blessings, and live lives dedicated to Him. 

Reflection for the Day

There are seasons when we pray faithfully, walk blamelessly, and still feel barren—whether in dreams, relationships, creativity, or spiritual life. Like Zechariah and Elizabeth, we can feel unseen or forgotten. But Luke reminds us that God is quietly at work even when nothing seems to be happening.

Zechariah’s silence invites you to consider: Where is God inviting you into stillness? What prayers have you stopped believing could still be answered? What “barren places” in your life might God be preparing to fill with unexpected life?

Elizabeth’s hidden five months show that some blessings begin in secrecy, away from public eyes. Growth often starts quietly, gently, almost imperceptibly.

Trust the slow work of God. Stay faithful in your small, daily offerings. Believe that grace is already unfolding, even if you cannot yet speak of it.

"Do not be afraid," the angel said, 

"Zechariah, your prayer is heard. 

Elizabeth will bear a son, 

A joy and delight, for everyone.

Call him John, a name so bright, 

He'll bring rejoicing, day and night. 

Great in the sight of the Lord he'll be, 

Filled with the Spirit, pure and free.

No wine or drink shall touch his lips, 

In holiness, his life equips. 

From before his birth, the Spirit's flame, 

Will guide his path, proclaim his name.

A promise fulfilled, a prayer's sweet song, 

In faith and hope, we all belong. 

Rejoice, for God's great plan is clear, 

In John's birth, His love draws near.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude, for Your promises and the fulfillment of our prayers. Just as You heard Zechariah's plea, hear our prayers and grant us Your peace.

We thank You for the joy and delight You bring, for the blessings that fill our lives. Help us to recognize Your hand in all things, and to rejoice in Your goodness and grace.

Fill us with Your Holy Spirit, guide us in Your ways, and help us to live lives that are pleasing to You. May we be a source of joy and blessing to others, reflecting Your love and light in all we do.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Infancy Narrative

ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN

Luke 1:5-25

Gospel Acclamation

O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 19, 2024, 7:09 AM

In Joseph’s Quiet Night

 

Gospel

Matthew 1:18-25

18 This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about. When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found with child through the Holy Spirit. 19 Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man, yet unwilling to expose her to shame, decided to divorce her quietly. 20 Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the Holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her. 21 She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 Behold, the virgin shall be with child and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us.” 24 When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home. 25 He had no relations with her until she bore a son, and he named him Jesus. 

Historical Background

This passage unfolds within first century Jewish culture, where betrothal was legally binding—more serious than modern engagement. Breaking it required a formal divorce. Honor and shame shaped social life. A woman found pregnant before living with her husband faced severe disgrace.

Dreams were understood as a legitimate way God communicated with His chosen servants, echoing Old Testament patterns (e.g., Joseph son of Jacob).

The name “Jesus” (Yeshua) meaning “Yahweh saves” reflects Israel’s longing for deliverance. Matthew emphasizes prophecy fulfillment, especially Isaiah 7:14, to show Jesus as the long-awaited Emmanuel. Jesus’ birth is introduced not only through Mary’s perspective (as in Luke), but also through Joseph’s obedience, highlighting his role in legally establishing Jesus within the line of David.

Theological Context

The conception “through the Holy Spirit,” is a divine initiative revealing that salvation begins with God’s action, not human effort. 

“You are to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” This reveals the mission of Christ from the very beginning: salvation, healing, restoration. Matthew frames Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s ancient promises. “Emmanuel” is not just a title—it is a theological declaration: God has entered human history in a new, intimate way.

Joseph is called “a righteous man,” not because he follows the law rigidly, but because he chooses mercy over punishment. His righteousness is relational, compassionate, and obedient. He never speaks a word in Scripture, yet his actions preach loudly. His obedience is immediate, quiet, and total.

Learning Lessons

God’s plans often disrupt our own, yet they lead to deeper purpose. Righteousness includes compassion, not just rule-following. Obedience sometimes requires courage, especially when others may misunderstand.

God is with us—not abstractly, but personally, in the messiness of real life. Names matter: Jesus’ very name is a promise of salvation.

Silence can be holy—a space where God speaks and we listen.

Reflection for the Day

Joseph’s story invites you to consider the quiet places where God may be speaking. Perhaps there is an area of your life where you feel uncertainty, confusion, or even fear. Joseph reminds you that God’s presence often appears in unexpected circumstances, and that surrendering your plans can open the door to grace.

Let today be a day of trustful obedience—not rushed, not forced, but rooted in the confidence that God is with you, guiding you gently.

“In Joseph’s Quiet Night”

In the hush of a troubled heart, 

when dreams are thin and fears run deep, 

a whisper breaks the silent dark— 

a promise stirring in his sleep.

“Do not fear,” the angel breathes, 

“for God is moving in your days. 

The child you guard is heaven’s gift, 

the dawn of mercy, light, and grace.”

He wakes to find the world unchanged,

 yet everything is new within. 

For faith has taken root in him— 

a quiet yes, a holy hymn.

O may we walk that humble way, 

when God invites our hearts to bend; 

to trust the path we cannot see, 

and love the life He longs to send.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, 

You who entered our world in humility and love, teach my heart to trust You as Joseph did. When my plans crumble or confusion rises, remind me that You are Emmanuel—God with us.

Give me the courage to obey Your voice, the gentleness to choose mercy, and the faith to surrender my fears into Your hands. Be born anew in my life today.

Amen

Pericope:

I: The Infancy Narrative

THE BIRTH OF JESUS

Matthew 1:18-25

Gospel Acclamation 

O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot

The Lineage of Grace

 

 Gospel

Matthew 1:1-17

1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. 2 Abraham became the father of Isaac, Isaac the father of Jacob, Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers. 3 Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah, whose mother was Tamar. Perez became the father of Hezron, Hezron the father of Ram, 4 Ram the father of Amminadab. Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, Nahshon the father of Salmon, 5 Salmon the father of Boaz, whose mother was Rahab. Boaz became the father of Obed, whose mother was Ruth. Obed became the father of Jesse, 6 Jesse the father of David the king. David became the father of Solomon, whose mother had been the wife of Uriah. 7 Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, Rehoboam the father of Abijah, Abijah the father of Asaph.  8 Asaph became the father of Jehoshaphat, Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, Joram the father of Uzziah. 9 Uzziah became the father of Jotham, Jotham the father of Ahaz, Ahaz the father of Hezekiah. 10 Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, Manasseh the father of Amos, Amos the father of Josiah. 11 Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the Babylonian exile. 12 After the Babylonian exile, Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, 13 Zerubbabel the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, Eliakim the father of Azor, 14 Azor the father of Zadok. Zadok became the father of Achim, Achim the father of Eliud, 15 Eliud the father of Eleazar. Eleazar became the father of Matthan, Matthan the father of Jacob, 16 Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ. 17 Thus the total number of generations from Abraham to David is fourteen generations; from David to the Babylonian exile, fourteen generations; from the Babylonian exile to the Christ, fourteen generations.

Historical Background

Matthew opens his Gospel with a genealogy because he is writing primarily for a Jewish audience. In Jewish culture, lineage was essential—identity, inheritance, and legitimacy were all tied to ancestry.

Genealogies proved one’s place in God’s covenant story. By tracing Jesus back to Abraham and David, Matthew shows that Jesus fulfills the promises made to both. The structure of 14–14–14 generations reflects a Jewish literary technique. Fourteen is the numerical value of the Hebrew letters in “David” (דוד). Matthew is subtly saying: Jesus is the long-awaited Son of David.

The genealogy includes moments of Israel’s glory and shame. Kings, exiles, foreigners, sinners—Matthew shows that God works through all of it.

Women appear in the genealogy, which was unusual in ancient Jewish records. Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and “the wife of Uriah” (Bathsheba) all have complicated stories. Their presence highlights God’s mercy and inclusivity.

Theological Context

Matthew’s genealogy is not just a list—it’s a proclamation that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises. His salvation unfolds through imperfect people including liars, adulterers, foreigners, 

kings who failed, and people who suffered injustice yet God’s plan moved forward. This reveals a God who redeems, not discards.

Jesus enters real human history. He is not a myth or idea—He is rooted in time, place, and family. God’s salvation is not abstract; it is embodied.

The genealogy points to a new creation. Three sets of fourteen generations symbolize completeness. With Jesus, a new era begins—the Kingdom of God breaking into the world.

Learning Lessons

God remembers His promises.  He works slowly but faithfully. His salvation took generations. Even when Israel was in exile, God was still moving. His grace includes the unexpected. Outsiders and sinners are woven into the Messiah’s lineage.

Jesus is the center of history—and the center of our story. Your story is unfolding too. Your past does not disqualify you. God uses broken people to build beautiful things.

Reflection for the Day

Take a moment to breathe and imagine your life as part of a long, sacred story. You are not an accident. You are not forgotten. God has been weaving threads long before you were born, and He continues to weave today.

God is patient with your journey. He is present in your family story—its joys and wounds. He is faithful even when you feel like you’re in “exile.” He is doing something new in you, just as He did through generations before Christ. Let this passage invite you to trust the slow, steady work of God.

“The Lineage of Grace”

From Abraham’s tent to David’s throne,

Through exile’s night and hearts of stone,

Through mothers brave and fathers flawed,

Still moved the quiet hand of God.

A tapestry of broken lines,

A story stitched through ancient times,

Until at last, in humble birth,

Heaven bent low to touch the earth.

O Christ, whose roots run deep and true,

Let grace take root in me anew.

Write my small life into Your plan—

The God who walks with humankind.

Lord Jesus,

Son of David and Son of Abraham,You entered our world through a long line of imperfect people, showing that nothing is beyond Your redemption. Thank You for stepping into human history—and into my own story. 

Heal what is broken in my family. Redeem what feels lost, and let Your grace flow through my life as it flowed through generations before You. Teach me to trust Your timing, to walk with patience, and to believe that You are working even when I cannot see it. Write the life You have in me into Your very own story of love and salvation. 

Amen.

Pericope:

I: The Infancy Narrative

THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS

Matthew 1:1-17

Gospel Acclamation

O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot

Walk your Talk

 Gospel

Matthew 21:28-32

28 Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people: “What is your opinion? A man had two sons. He came to the first and said, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 The son said in reply, ‘I will not,’ but afterwards he changed his mind and went. 30 The man came to the other son and gave the same order. He said in reply, ‘Yes, sir,’ but did not go. 31 Which of the two did his father’s will?” They answered, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Amen, I say to you, tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the Kingdom of God before you. 32 When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him; but tax collectors and prostitutes did. Yet even when you saw that, you did not later change your minds and believe him.”

Historical Background

In first century Judaism, a son who refused his father publicly brought shame; a son who agreed but failed to act brought even greater shame. Jesus uses this cultural script to expose the leaders’ hypocrisy.

A vineyard symbolized Israel in Jewish tradition (Isaiah 5). By placing the sons in a vineyard, Jesus invokes covenant imagery familiar to His listeners.

Tax collectors were despised as collaborators with Rome. Prostitutes were considered ritually impure. Jesus’ statement that they enter the Kingdom ahead of the religious elite was shocking and socially disruptive. Jesus uses John as the test case — the marginalized believed him, but the leaders rejected him despite their religious status.

Theological Context

The parable is fundamentally about true obedience. The first son represents sinners who initially reject God but later repent and obey. The second son represents religious leaders who profess obedience but do not live it out.

Jesus teaches that repentance + action = righteousness, not religious appearance. God’s Kingdom is open to those who respond to His call with humility, not those who rely on status or reputation.

This aligns with the broader theme in Matthew: The Kingdom belongs to those who do the Father’s will, not merely those who say the right words.

Learning Lessons

Actions reveal the truth of our hearts. Words matter, but obedience matters more. Saying “yes” to God is not enough — we must live it.

God looks at sincerity, humility, and transformation. Even those society rejects can turn toward God and be welcomed. The last can become first; the broken can become beloved.

Reflection for the Day

Where in my life am I like the first son — hesitant, resistant, or afraid — yet still being called gently by God to step into the vineyard? And where might I be like the second son — saying “yes” outwardly but holding back in practice?

Jesus isn’t condemning; He’s inviting. Inviting us into integrity, into alignment, into the joy of doing the Father’s will. Let this day be a quiet turning — a small “yes” lived out in action, not just intention.

“The Vineyard of Today”

You call me, Lord,

not to the places I choose,

but to the vineyard of this very day—

the tasks, the people, the hidden corners

where love must become real.

Sometimes I say yes

with lips that move faster than my heart.

Sometimes I say no

because fear speaks louder than faith.

Yet still You wait,

patient as sunrise,

watching for the moment

my feet begin to move.

Teach me the honesty of obedience,

the courage of repentance,

the quiet beauty of a life

that finally walks toward You.

Lord Jesus, 

You see beyond my words and into my heart. You know the places where I hesitate, resist, or delay. Give me the grace to respond to You with sincerity. Teach me to obey not out of fear, but out of love. Where I have said “no,” help me turn back to You. Where I have said “yes” without action, strengthen my will. Make my life a true offering — not in appearance, but in faithful, humble obedience. Lead me into Your vineyard today, and stay with me as I work for Your Kingdom. 

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE PARABLE OF THE TWO SONS

Matthew 21:28-32

Gospel Acclamation

Come, O Lord, do not delay; forgive the sins of your people.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

 

Authority Questioned

Gospel

Matthew 21:23-27

23 When Jesus had come into the temple area, the chief priests and the elders of the people approached him as he was teaching and said, “By what authority are you doing these things? And who gave you this authority?” 24 Jesus said to them in reply, “I shall ask you one question, and if you answer it for me, then I shall tell you by what authority I do these things. 25 Where was John’s baptism from? Was it of heavenly or of human origin?” They discussed this among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘Of heavenly origin,’ he will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ 26 But if we say, ‘Of human origin,’ we fear the crowd, for they all regard John as a prophet.” 27 So they said to Jesus in reply, “We do not know.” He himself said to them, “Neither shall I tell you by what authority I do these things.”

Historical Background

Jesus has just entered Jerusalem in a way that publicly signals messianic authority—the triumphal entry, the cleansing of the Temple, the healing of the blind and the lame. These actions weren’t small gestures; they were bold, prophetic signs that directly challenged the religious establishment.

So when Jesus returns to the Temple the next day to teach, the chief priests and elders confront Him. In their world, authority in the Temple was tightly controlled. Only those with recognized lineage, training, or institutional approval could teach or act in God’s name. Jesus had none of these credentials—yet He acted with unmistakable divine authority.

Their question—“By what authority are you doing these things?”—wasn’t curiosity. It was a trap. If Jesus claimed divine authority, they could accuse Him of blasphemy. If He denied it, His mission would lose credibility.

Theological Context

Jesus responds with a counter-question about John the Baptist: “Was John’s baptism from heaven or from men?” This is brilliant for several reasons:

John publicly identified Jesus as the Messiah. To affirm John would be to affirm Jesus.

The leaders rejected John. So admitting John’s authority would expose their spiritual blindness.

They fear the crowd. Their concern is not truth but public opinion.

Their answer—“We do not know”—reveals the heart of the issue. They are not seekers of truth but protectors of power. Jesus then refuses to answer their original question, not out of avoidance, but because their hearts are not disposed to receive the truth.

Theologically, this moment exposes a key theme in Matthew: True authority comes from God and is recognized by those whose hearts are open.

Learning Lessons

Jesus teaches us the value of thoughtful and strategic responses when faced with difficult questions or opposition. He gives us the wisdom and ability to handle challenging situations. 

In the conduct of our daily lives, there are times when we are confronted with the challenges that come with questioning established norms and figures. At this point, it is important for us to understand and recognize true authority. 

Jesus' authority came from God, and this challenges us to discern and honor the true sources of authority in our lives. We should not allow fear of others' opinions to dictate our actions and decisions.

Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to seek wisdom in our responses, not be swayed by public opinion, and recognize and respect divine authority. 

Reflection for the Day

This passage invites a quiet, honest look at the heart. Where do I ask God for answers while my heart is not ready to receive them? Sometimes we want clarity, but only on our terms.

Where do I cling to control instead of truth? The religious leaders feared losing influence. We, too, can fear what obedience might cost.

Do I recognize God’s authority when it comes in unexpected forms? Jesus didn’t fit the leaders’ categories. God often works outside our expectations.

Am I willing to let God question me before I question Him? Jesus’ counter-question wasn’t avoidance—it was invitation. He asks us, too: Are you ready to see the truth if I show it to you?

Maybe the grace for today is this: A heart that is teachable. A spirit that is willing to be questioned. A faith that recognizes God’s authority even when it disrupts my comfort.

Jesus entered the temple courts, 

Teaching truths of heavenly sorts. 

Chief priests and elders gathered near, 

Questioning His authority clear.

"By what authority do You do these things? 

Who gave You power, who made You king?" 

Jesus replied with wisdom profound, 

A question to turn their thoughts around.

"John's baptism, from where did it come? 

From heaven above, or human sum?" 

They pondered, fearing the crowd's might, 

Afraid to answer, wrong or right.

"If we say heaven, why not believe? 

If human, the people will grieve." 

So they answered, "We do not know." 

Jesus replied, "Then neither will I show."

In wisdom's light, His truth concealed, 

Authority divine, yet unrevealed. 

For those who seek with open heart, 

Will find His truth, and never part.

Lord Jesus, 

You entered the temple courts with authority, teaching truths that challenge and inspire. When questioned by the chief priests and elders, You responded with wisdom and grace.

Grant us the wisdom to recognize Your authority, and the discernment to understand Your teachings. Help us to seek Your guidance in all we do, and to trust in Your divine plan.

May we not be swayed by fear or public opinion but stand firm in our faith and convictions. Guide us in our actions and decisions, so that we may honor You in all things.

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS QUESTIONED

Matthew 21:23-27

Gospel Acclamation

Show us, Lord, your love, and grant us your salvation.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 16, 2024, 9:10 AM 

Are You the One?

 

 

Gospel

Matthew 11:2-11

2 When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus 3 with this question, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we look for another?” 4 Jesus said to them in reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5 the blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them. 6 And blessed is the one who takes no offense at me.” 7 As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. 9 Then why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare your way before you. 11 Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”

Historical Background

John the Baptist is imprisoned by Herod Antipas. He had boldly confronted Herod’s immoral actions, and now he awaited his fate in a dark, isolated cell. From prison, he hears reports about Jesus’ ministry—healings, teachings, miracles—and sends his disciples to ask Jesus directly: “Are you the one who is to come?”

This moment reveals the tension of the time. Many Jews expected a political Messiah who would overthrow Roman oppression. Jesus, however, was revealing a different kind of kingdom—one marked by healing, mercy, and restoration. John’s question reflects the longing of Israel, the ache of waiting, and the human desire for clarity in moments of suffering.

Theological Context

Jesus responds not with a title but with evidence: “The blind see, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them.” These signs echo Isaiah’s prophecies about the Messiah. Jesus is saying: “Yes, I am the One—but 

My kingdom unfolds through compassion, not conquest.”

He then honors John publicly, calling him more than a prophet and the greatest born of women. Yet He adds a paradox: “The least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” This reveals a profound truth: the new covenant brings an intimacy with God that even the greatest Old Testament prophet could not yet experience.

Learning Lessons

Even the faithful experience doubt. John, the fiery prophet, needed reassurance. Doubt is not failure—it’s part of the journey. Jesus answers with presence, not explanations. He points to what God is doing, not to abstract arguments.

God’s kingdom grows quietly. Healing, mercy, and good news to the poor are the true signs of divine power.

Greatness in God’s eyes is different from greatness in the world. Humility, openness, and trust draw us closest to Him.

Reflection for the Day

Where in your life are you waiting for God to move? Where do you feel like John—uncertain, tired, or longing for clarity? And where might Jesus already be at work, quietly healing, restoring, and opening new paths? Sometimes the answer to our prayers is already unfolding, but we need the eyes to see it.

“Are You the One?”

In the dim light of a prison cell  

a prophet whispers his last question,  

not out of weakness  

but out of longing.

And You, O Christ,  

do not scold the trembling heart—  

You simply point  

to the blind who now see,  

the broken who now dance,  

the forgotten who now rise.

Your kingdom comes softly,  

like dawn through a narrow window,  

like hope returning  

to a weary soul.

Teach me to look for You  

in the quiet miracles—  

the healing I almost missed,  

the mercy I did not expect,  

the joy that grows  

in hidden places.

Lord Jesus, 

When my heart feels uncertain, meet me the way You met John— with signs of Your goodness, with reminders of Your nearness, with the quiet strength of Your love.

Open my eyes to the ways You are already healing my life. Open my ears to the good news You speak into my fears. Open my heart to trust You more deeply today.

Make me a witness of Your compassion, a bearer of Your hope, and a humble servant of Your kingdom.

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: Opposition from Israel

THE MESSENGERS FROM JOHN THE BAPTIST / JESUS' TESTIMONY TO JOHN

Matthew 11:2-6 / 7-19

Gospel Acclamation 

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Restore All Things

 

Gospel

Matthew 17:9, 10-13

9 As they were coming down from the mountain, 10 the disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” 11 He said in reply, “Elijah will indeed come and restore all things; 12 but I tell you that Elijahhas already come, and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased. So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.” 13 Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist. 

Historical Background

This passage takes place immediately after the Transfiguration, where Peter, James, and John saw Jesus in divine glory alongside Moses and Elijah. As they descend the mountain, Jesus commands them not to tell anyone about the vision until after His resurrection. This secrecy protects the meaning of the event—His glory can only be understood through the Cross and Resurrection.

The disciples then ask about the Jewish expectation that Elijah must return before the Messiah. This belief comes from Malachi 3:23 (4:5), a prophecy deeply embedded in Jewish tradition. Jesus affirms the prophecy but reveals that Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist, who came “in the spirit and power of Elijah” and suffered rejection just as Elijah did.

Theological Context

Jesus identifies John as the fulfillment of the Elijah prophecy. John’s mission of repentance prepared the way for Christ, just as Elijah prepared Israel for God’s intervention.

The Transfiguration reveals Jesus’ divine identity, but He insists it must be interpreted through His suffering and resurrection. Glory without the Cross is incomplete. His command to keep the vision secret shows that God’s plan unfolds gradually. The disciples are not yet ready to understand the fullness of what they witnessed until after Easter.

The disciples struggle because they expect a triumphant Messiah, not one who suffers. Jesus gently corrects them, preparing them for His Passion.

Learning Lessons

Jesus uses this moment to prepare His disciples for His own suffering and death. This emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting the path of sacrifice and redemption that Jesus took for our salvation.

Both John the Baptist and Jesus faced suffering and rejection. This teaches us that following God's will may involve hardship and persecution, but it also leads to ultimate fulfillment and glory.

Jesus confirms that Elijah has come, referring to John the Baptist, who came in the spirit and power of Elijah. The people did not recognize John the Baptist as the Elijah who was to come. We should be attentive and discerning, recognizing God's messengers and the ways He works in our lives.

Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to trust in God's promises, be discerning of His messengers, accept the reality of suffering in the pursuit of righteousness, and appreciate the sacrifice Jesus made for us. 

Reflection for the Day

The disciples have just seen Jesus in dazzling glory, yet the very next words they hear are about suffering, silence, and misunderstood prophecy. It’s a reminder that in the spiritual life, mountaintop moments and valley trials are not opposites—they belong together.

Maybe today you’re carrying both light and burden. Maybe you’ve glimpsed God’s goodness but still walk through something unclear or painful.

Today, the Lord invites us to trust that His work in our lives is unfolding even when we don’t fully understand it. Like John the Baptist’s hidden faithfulness, preparation often happens quietly, 

Glory comes, but only through the path of surrender. We don’t need to see the whole plan to keep walking with Jesus.

To be sure, Elijah comes, 

Restoring all, as prophecy hums. 

But I tell you, he's already here, 

Unrecognized, yet ever near.

They did to him as they desired, 

In their hearts, no love inspired. 

In the same way, the Son of Man, 

Will suffer at their cruel hand.

A voice in the wilderness, calling clear, 

Prepare the way, the Lord is near. 

Yet blinded eyes and hardened hearts, 

Failed to see the sacred parts.

In suffering, redemption's plan, 

Through trials faced by the Son of Man. 

For in His pain, our hope is found, 

In His love, our souls are bound.

Lord Jesus, 

You spoke of Elijah's coming, and the restoration he would bring. Yet, he came unrecognized and suffered at the hands of men. 

Grant us the wisdom to recognize Your messengers, And the courage to follow Your will. Help us to see Your hand in our lives, and to embrace the path You have set before us. As You faced suffering and rejection, give us the strength to endure our trials. May we remain faithful to Your call and find hope in Your promise of restoration.

Help us recognize Your presence in both the shining moments and the difficult ones. Teach us to trust the slow unfolding of Your plan, and give us the courage of John the Baptist—to prepare the way for You in our hearts and in the world.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: Jesus, the Kingdom, and the Church

THE COMING OF ELIJAH

Matthew 17:9-13

Gospel Acclamation

Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths: All flesh shall see the salvation of God. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 14, 2024, 9:24 AM