december 14, 2008

In the Gospel, John the Baptist found it hard to say exactly who he was, and found it easier to say who he was NOT. There is wisdom in that. Were he to have said, “I am the Voice of Deliverance!” he would have probably got a big head, and pride would have overtaken him. As it was, he said, “I’m NOT the Christ; I’m not even the light! I’m not Elijah nor am I a prophet…I guess I’m just a voice in the desert…” St. Paul encourages each of us to say, “I am NOT perfect! I am NOT particularly holy, and I am NOT irreproachable.” That way, we can be open to the Power of the One Who CAN make us holy, and lead us in goodness. It is so important to humility to know what we are not. It is when we are truly humble, accepting our insignificance that God can work through us, placing the Spirit upon us to help others heal and find freedom. As we approach the manger, low as it is, we have to learn to kneel, let us pray for humility and tenderness.