Christmas Weekday

Today's Mass Readings

Although today’s first reading (1 Jn 5: 5-13) begins with v. 5, we must really begin with v. 4, which says: “…for whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. And the victory that conquers the world is our faith.” The New Testament perception of the world dualistic, meaning, that it emphasises a body/soul, material/spiritual world/divine differentiation. Moreover, the divine spiritual soul is considered superior to the worldly material body. In the incarnation this difference is rendered redundant - the divine became human so that the human can become divine. (Also see today’s gospel – Mk 1:7-11). Christ came to redeem us body and soul.

In fact, all of creation will one day be restored to its original purpose (Romans 8:19). However, human beings have exhibited the tendency to lose themselves in worldly pursuits and disregard the spiritual. To counter any such tendency that might exist in his community John suggests a strategy – “the victory that conquers the world is our faith. Who [indeed] is the victor but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?”

The time we live in is not easy. Economists have suggested that 2009 will be worst than the last year. Crime will increase as a result, medical problems will arise, people will be depressed. Yet who will be the victor? Who [indeed] is the victor but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” Let us be strong in our faith in Jesus Christ. Let us make an act of faith even as we bring to close this reflection.

- Fr. Satish Joseph