Scripture:
1 John 2:18-21
John 1: 1-18
Reflection:
"In the beginning was the Word."
It’s the last day of the year and the eve of a new one. For many of us, this means it’s a time of reflection–a time to look back and a time to look forward.
Words are important. Words have power. Words help us express our feelings and emotions, our hopes and our dreams. Words enable us to communicate ideas and thoughts. Words can unite us with others or separate us from one another. Words are significant.
Our Gospel today is about beginnings. God is good at beginnings.
In the beginning, God spoke and the world was created. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. Somehow, before the beginning of time, this Christ child existed, not as a human being, but as God himself, as what we call the Word.
This Christ had something to do with the creation of every single thing that we have in our lives. And also, He had something to do with the creation of you and of me.
Sometimes, when we consider the vast expanse of the universe, we might think that you and I are very insignificant. But then we learn that this Christ-God, became just like you and me. He became a little child, a person just like us in all things except sin. "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us."
This Word has graced us with many blessings: the gift of power, God’s power; the gift of light, a light that shines in the darkness, but will never be overcome by the darkness; and the gifts of perfect grace and truth, gifts that we receive every day of our lives.
Words are important. Actions are also important.
As we cross the bridge into 2012, let us walk humbly with our God, trusting that He will help us to: care deeply, give freely, think kindly, act gently and be at peace with the world.
Happy New Year to all!
Deacon Brian Clements was formerly a member of the staff at Mater Dolorosa Retreat Center in Sierra Madre, California.