REFLECTIONS TODAY Every now and then we hear of individuals claiming to be God’s “appointed son,” God’s “sent,” or God’s “anointed.” And many people believe them, especially if they promise “blessings”—abundance or solutions to their problems—because they are adept at quoting Scripture passages. John the Baptist preaches a baptism of repentance; he calls on people to change their ways and be converted lest they incur the coming wrath of God. But he does not claim to be the Anointed of God or the light of the world. On the contrary, in relation to the One whose coming he is announcing, John claims he is not fit even to unfasten the strap of his sandals. So, though he answers “No” to the question, “Are you the one who is to come?” John nonetheless points out to him and prepares his way. And once the One who is to come does come, John fades away. Do we know our proper role in life? Or are we intent on claiming to be what we are not at all costs?

Gospel • JOHN 5:33-36

Jesus said to the Jews, “You sent emissaries to John, and he testified to the truth. I do not accept testimony from a human being, but I say this so that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and for a while you were content to rejoice in his light. But I have testimony greater than John’s. The works that the Father gave me to accomplish, these works that I perform testify on my behalf that the Father has sent me.” SOURCE: “366 Days with the Lord 2020,” ST. PAULS, 7708 St. Paul Rd., SAV, Makati City (Phils.); Tel.: 632-895-9701; Fax 632-895-7328; E-mail: [email protected]; Website: http://www.stpauls.ph.