The Seventh Day in the Octave of Christmas
(I John 2:18-21; John 1:1-18)
For this last day of the year the Church asks us to reflect on two readings from the world of John, the Evangelist. Together they point to Jesus as the fulfillment of time. He is “all in all.”
The first reading’s reference to “antichrists” should not be mistaken as a conspiracy of devils. “Antichrists” here are fallen away members of the writer’s own community who might influence others to join them. They have rejected the teaching of the apostles that Jesus is the Son of God who became human to redeem the world from sin.
The gospel describes the same incarnation. At the beginning of time, the Father by means of the Son, who is the Word, called the universe into existence. One may call this moment the “Big Bang.” In time “the Word became flesh” to give fellow humans life beyond physical life -- eternal life.
Now is a moment to examine our consciences about where we stand with Jesus Christ, the Word of God. Have we drawn closer to him during this past year by putting into practice living his teaching? Or have we loved ourselves more than him by putting our will ahead of his? If we have followed the latter path, tomorrow we begin a new year to change our priorities.
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