Eldho Augustine csc –
Readings: Sir 48: 1-4, 9-11; Mt 17: 9a,10-13
In the first reading, we read about the prophet Elijah who performed mighty wonders during his lifetime. He worked tirelessly to bring the people of Israel back to God.
Jewish people are expecting Elijah to return to save them from their slavery and to serve as a forerunner for the Messiah, the saviour. In the gospel, we hear Jesus saying that this expectation is fulfilled in the person and preaching of John the Baptist. There are many similarities between Elijah and John the Baptist. They both lived in deserts, were courageous to speak the word of God, preached repentance and found the favour of the Lord.
The exemplary lifestyles of these two great personalities in the scripture invite us to be faithful in doing the will of God. We are chosen and called by God to be the witnesses of his love and compassion. So, let us continue to have faith in him that he will fill us with his Spirit to proclaim the good news boldly like Elijah and John the Baptist to establish the kingdom of God on earth.