The Gospel reveals how John the Baptist was sent to testify to Christ, the Light of the world. Following John’s example, we are called to testify to the Light…so that others will find Christ in our words and actions.
St. Paul’s time and energy in Corinth reveal the powerful opportunity he had to share the Gospel. When the chance presents itself in our lives, may we respond with the same intensity as we witness our faith in Christ.
On this feast of St. John – the Apostle and Evangelist – we look to John’s example and consider how we are called to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ in our lives today.
Stephen is the first person to give his life as a witness to his faith in Jesus Christ. He spoke with a wisdom and spirit that none could refute, and he offers us an example about how we show our love for the Lord every day.
Jesus offers some key insights regarding what it means to be his witness in the world. What we do matters, and even in our darkest moments we can call upon the Holy Spirit for what we need.
Nathaniel is brought to the Lord by Philip and testifies that Jesus is the Son of God. We, too, can acknowledge that Jesus is Lord, and in doing so we have the opportunity to put our faith into practice.
Who taught you about Jesus? Who strengthened and fostered your faith? This gift we have been received is not just for our own use…it must be passed on. Which begs the obvious question: Who has God placed in your life today, and how can you share your faith?
On this feast of St. Mark we hear the command of the Risen Lord to the Eleven: they are to go out into the world and proclaim the Gospel. May these words inspire us today to share our faith with the people God has placed in our lives.
After the resurrection Jesus appears to the Apostles and explains how he has fulfilled the prophecies within the Sacred Scriptures; that it was necessary for the Christ to suffer, die and be raised on the third day. He concludes this passage with a powerful exhortation, “You are witnesses of these things.” Our faith was built on the witness of others, and our lived example of faith helps others encounter the Risen Lord today.