Reflection for Saturday December 13 Memorial of Saint Lucy, Virgin and Martyr: Matthew 17:9a, 10-13

Gospel: Matthew 17:9a, 10-13

As they were coming down from the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”

He said in reply, “Elijah will indeed come and restore all things; but I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him but did to him whatever they pleased. So also will the Son of Man suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist.

+ + + + + + +

Reflection:

Why is it that oftentimes we don’t recognize or feel God in our lives? Many times it is because we fail to listen to the advice of well-meaning people whom God sends to guide us closer to Jesus. At other times, it is because our prayer life has become inadequate, rushed, or neglected—leaving little room for God to speak to our hearts.

There are moments when we are encouraged to attend Holy Mass, or when someone gently counsels us to let go of harmful habits and unhealthy relationships. Yet we often dismiss these invitations. We choose our own way, relying on our own wisdom, until we fall into sin and slowly drift away from the loving presence of God.

Both Elijah and John the Baptist, one way or another, advised the people of their time to turn away from sin and embrace the teachings of Jesus. They prepared hearts, opened minds, and devoted their entire lives to leading others closer to God. Their mission was not grand in appearance, but it was powerful in purpose—they gave everything so that others could encounter the Lord.

We too are invited to follow in their footsteps. In our own simple, humble way, we can prepare the way for Jesus in our homes, workplaces, families, and communities. We do this by living His teachings with sincerity, and by sharing His love through small acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion. This is the daily challenge that confronts us as followers of Jesus Christ: to live and share the Lord’s life and teachings with courage and joy.

And so we ask ourselves: Will we allow God to work through us today so that others may see, hear, and experience Jesus through our lives? – Marino J. Dasmarinas