As we all know change is not always easy. Sometimes, it needs to be embraced incrementally until we can let go of the tried-and-true ways of knowing and doing, before we become comfortable or proficient with the new. There is uncertainty, mistakes, frustrations all experienced as the new is taken on board.

In today’s gospel new insights are being challenged.  The message of Jesus is spreading. The status quo is becoming unsettled. There is an air of newness in the air. John is very visible. His physical presence and teaching are unsettling. Messengers, of the old order, are sent out to interrogate John. ‘Who is he? Does he equate himself with the prophets of old?  By whose authority is he baptising?’ These are the questions of people who are experiencing nervousness at the new ‘teachings.’

As a man of strong faith, John has great insight into his role as the herald of someone who is far greater than he.  The opening prayer of today’s liturgy encourages us to be like John the Baptist, who knew his role in the mission of Jesus and like him we pray: ‘in humility we may learn Your truth and practice it faithfully in charity.’

John the Baptist is a wonderful teacher for us today, in the way he stayed true to the message he preached and his faithfulness to his cousin Jesus. The first letter of John encourages to be like John the Baptist ‘if what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you will abide in the Son.’ (1 John 2:24)

The message of hope was alive in John the Baptist, and we are encouraged to hold on to what we have been taught and to live into the loving embrace of God.

Let our mantra today be: ‘Lead me into the wisdom of God.’

by Anne Surtees osu