Gospel
19 This is the testimony of John. When the Jews from Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to him to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He admitted and did not deny it, but admitted, “I am not the Christ.” So they asked him, “What are you then? Are you Elijah?” And he said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” He answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you, so we can give an answer to those who sent us? What do you have to say for yourself?” 23 He said: I am the voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as Isaiah the prophet said.” 24 Some Pharisees were also sent. 25 They asked him, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ or Elijah or the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water; but there is one among you whom you do not recognize, 27 the one who is coming after me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to untie.” 28 This happened in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
Historical Background
This passage takes place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John the Baptist was baptizing. At this time, priests and levites were sent from Jerusalem to investigate John because his growing influence stirred concern among religious authorities.
Judaism in the first century expected several eschatological figures. The Messiah (a Davidic king), Elijah (who was expected to return before the Day of the Lord), and “The Prophet” like Moses from Deuteronomy 18:15.
John denies being any of these, insisting he is only “the voice crying out in the wilderness” from Isaiah 40:3 — the one preparing the way for the Lord. His baptism symbolized repentance and readiness, evoking themes of purification and a new exodus for Israel.
Theological Context
John’s identity is rooted not in titles but in mission. He points away from himself and toward Christ. The Church sees him as the model of authentic witness — humble, truthful, Christ-centered. He says he is unworthy to untie Jesus’ sandal strap — a task reserved for the lowest servant. This expresses the infinite gap between the human messenger and the divine Messiah.
John’s baptism with water prepares hearts for the baptism of the Spirit that Jesus will bring. His ministry is transitional — the dawn before the sunrise.
Jesus was already present, but unrecognized. This theme of hidden glory runs throughout John’s Gospel.
Learning Lessons
Jesus is one among you whom you do not recognize. He walks beside you on the road, He shares your joys and cries, He listens to your hopes and fears, He knows your deepest needs, He offers you His grace and peace, He plants his kingdom seeds. Jesus works with you in daily tasks, shows you what is wise, guides you with His gentle hand, teaches you His ways, blesses you with gifts and skills, and fills your life with praise.
Jesus is Your Lord and Savior who loves you with a perfect love, calls you by your name, waits for you to turn to Him, longs to be your friend, invites you to His table, and wants your love to mend. Come to Jesus and recognize His presence over your life.
Reflection for Today
Who am I pointing to — myself or Christ? John teaches us that true greatness is found in humility and mission, not recognition. In a world obsessed with identity, status, and self-promotion, John reminds us that we are not the center — Christ is.
Do I recognize Jesus already present in my life? Like the priests and Levites, we can be religious yet fail to recognize the Lord standing quietly in our midst — in the poor, in silence, in Scripture, in the sacraments, in the ordinary.
Am I preparing the way for Him? Every act of kindness, forgiveness, and repentance “makes straight the way of the Lord” in our hearts and communities.
Humility frees us. John’s freedom comes from knowing who he is and who he is not. When we stop trying to be the savior and simply become His witness, peace follows.
Jesus is in the stranger, knocking at the door,
who asks for food and shelter, and a little more
as if you were the least of these, the hungry and the poor
till at last your gracious welcome makes His presence sure.
Jesus is in the scripture, speaking through the word,
who tells the ancient stories, and the truths they stirred
as if you were the living Word, the lamp unto our feet
till at last your Spirit opens our minds to all we meet.
Jesus is in the glory, shining from above,
who fills the earth with beauty, and the heavens with love
as if you were the King of kings, the Lord of all creation
till at last your splendor dazzles our eyes with admiration.
Prayer to Our Lord Jesus Christ
Lord Jesus Christ,
You who were already standing among Your people unrecognized, open my eyes today to see Your presence in my life.
Give me the humility of John the Baptist — to point not to myself but always to You. Straighten what is crooked in my heart, cleanse what needs repentance, and prepare me to welcome You more deeply. Make me a faithful witness of Your light, a voice that leads others toward Your love.
You are the One who comes after all my efforts, yet You are greater than all I could ever do. Jesus, be the center of my life today and always.
Amen
Pericope:
II: The Book of Signs
JOHN THE BAPTIST'S TESTIMONY TO HIMSELF
John 1:22-28
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
Published:
January 02, 2025, 6:31 AM
