Memorial of Saints Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Church

Jan 2

Gospel: Jn 1:19-28

For me, Christmas has always been a time of reflection. A time to stop and think about where I've been and where I'm going. I remember growing up, Christmas seemed simpler. There was a rhythm to it, a joy that felt untouched by the complications of growing older. I didn't question my place in the world much then. It was enough to bask in the warmth of such moments and delight in the hornado de chancho y canelazo.

But now, well into my twenties, going into the new year, life feels heavier. The world has questions for me, Who am I? What am I doing? What is my purpose? It's easy to feel like I don't have all the answers, like I'm being asked to play a role I'm still figuring out. Reading this Gospel passage, my thoughts go to John the Baptist. The priests and Levites just wouldn't stop asking him, "Who are you?" "What do you say about yourself?" John knew exactly who he wasn't-the Messiah or Elijah-but he also knew who he was. His role was to be a voice, to be the one to make ready for something greater.

I find comfort in John's clarity and humility. He didn't have to be the center of attention; he just had to play his part. Sometimes, I think back to those simple Christmases, when everything felt so clear and whole. It reminds me that God doesn't ask us to be everything, but to be something, to prepare the way for Him in our own unique way.

But as I look ahead now, I'm hopeful. I have a role to play in this story, as do you. Maybe through small acts of kindness with neighbors in my community, sitting with friends, or voicing a need when one needs voicing. Like John, I learn to embrace my role-small acts within a greater purpose.

Merry Christmas! Feliz Año Nuevo! and may we all walk into our roles with courage and grace.