John the Baptist highlights the value of honesty and integrity in our actions and dealings with others. We should be generous and compassionate, sharing our resources with those in need, and helping others with what we have. Let us find contentment in what we have, rather than constantly seeking more or exploiting others for personal gain.
The responses John gives are practical ways to live out repentance. This teaches us that true repentance involves concrete actions and changes in our behavior, not just words. Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to practice generosity, honesty, integrity, and contentment in our daily lives.
"What should we do?" the crowd did ask,
To John the Baptist, in their task.
"Share your shirts with those in need,
And with your food, the hungry feed."
Tax collectors came, seeking the way,
"Teacher, what should we do today?"
"Collect no more than what is due,
In honesty, let your work be true."
Soldiers then approached with care,
"What should we do, in our despair?"
"Extort no money, accuse no lies,
Be content with your pay, be wise."
In every heart, a call to heed,
To live with love, in word and deed.
For in these acts, the truth is shown,
A path of grace, by mercy known.
Lord Jesus,
We come before You with open hearts, Seeking guidance in our daily lives. Help us to share what we have with those in need, to be generous with our resources and compassionate in our actions.
Teach us to be honest and fair, collecting only what is required and avoiding deceit. Grant us the strength to resist the temptation to extort or falsely accuse, and to be content with what we have.
May our lives reflect Your love and integrity, as we strive to follow Your teachings. Guide us in our actions, so that we may bring Your light to the world.
Amen.
Pericope:
III: The Preparation for the Public Ministry
THE PREACHING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
Gospel Acclamation
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.
Gospel | Luke 3:10-18
10 The crowds asked John the Baptist, “What should we do?” 11 He said to them in reply, “Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do likewise.” 12 Even tax collectors came to be baptized and they said to him, “Teacher, what should we do?” 13 He answered them, “Stop collecting more than what is prescribed.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And what is it that we should do?” He told them, “Do not practice extortion, do not falsely accuse anyone, and be satisfied with your wages.” 15 Now the people were filled with expectation, and all were asking in their hearts whether John might be the Christ. 16 John answered them all, saying, “I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fan is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” 18 Exhorting them in many other ways, he preached good news to the people.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
Luke 3:1-20
