REFLECTIONS TODAY What sort of preaching moves us or interests us, or bores us, or repels us? Normally, we are selective in what we want to hear. We only want pleasant, interesting, uplifting, and even flattering words. But there are times when we are caught listening to disturbing, irritating, challenging words. And our immediate reaction is flight. John the Baptist’s preaching surely would have comforted and consoled many people. But we also imagine how many, especially the religious authorities, hated him for his scathing speeches especially directed against them. But, shouldn’t we welcome any sort of preaching, whether it hurts or disturbs us, as long as in the end it changes us for the better? Selective listening offers no possibility for growth because it does not welcome challenging and difficult words. But isn’t it true that it is from the most painful experiences that we emerge a better and stronger person? And that it is from the seemingly harsh words of our parents that we have become better parents in turn? Gospel • Mark 1:7-11 This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: “One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Source: “365 Days with the Lord 2023,” St. Paul’s, 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.