Cry out with joy and gladness: for among you is the great and Holy One of Israel.— Isaiah 12:6

Mass Readings: Zephaniah 3:14-18a/Philippians 4:4-7/Luke 3:10-18 

‘What Should We Do?’ 

“What should we do?” It’s a very practical question. In today’s Gospel, John the Baptist is prophesying the coming of the Messiah. That’s a profound message. But the people in the Gospel wisely ask, “What does that mean for me?” And John is quite willing to offer very practical advice: If you have more than you need, share with the poor. If you have an office of responsibility, exercise it honestly. 

But John also knew what he should do — not pretend himself to be the Messiah, despite his popularity, but simply point the way to Christ. That is also what we should do — whatever our place in business or society — in all our words and actions: We must simply point the way to Christ Jesus. 

Prayer: St. John the Baptist, help me point the way to Christ.