By Antony Jayaraj, CSC –
Readings: Is 11:1-10; Rom 15:4-9; Mt 3:1-12
The liturgy is inviting me to prepare a place for the reign of the Lord, not so much externally but by enthroning him in the inner world of emotion and intellect. The external expression depends so much on what I see and hear and I alienate myself from the Lord (Gentiles). At times true repentance – a change of heart and mind – is what challenges me to outrun myself to welcome the Lord to rule my life. The consciousness inside me, much like John the Baptist, proclaims the goodness of the Lord despite my vulnerabilities and negligence.
In the light of the Gospel, I understand that the kingdom of God is within me and the kingdom of happiness is in my thoughts and choices. The first reading exemplifies the kind of life situation when God accompanies me and I allow him to take control of my life. The second reading reminds me that it is the depth of my faith that determines the quality of life.
Bearing fruits in life depends on the cultivation of thoughts and feelings beyond what I see and hear. In order to live in the reign of God, I am invited to strengthen the faith that bridges emotion and intellect. The strength of tree depends on the depth of the roots.
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