The Gospel of Sunday 15th January 2017... John the Baptist

Gospel Jn 1:29 - 34

John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said,
"Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
He is the one of whom I said,
'A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me
because he existed before me.'
I did not know him,     
but the reason why I came baptizing with water
was that he might be made known to Israel."
John testified further, saying,
"I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from heaven
and remain upon him.
I did not know him,
but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me,
'On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain,
he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'
Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God."

What is important to understand here is that John had willingly and gladly referred Jesus as the Messiah. Although he arrived earlier and was known to the populace, who assumed John was the chosen one, yet he gave it all up, saying the reference in the scriptures was to Jesus. He did not take false credit for a position that was not meant to be his.

Do we still cling to the Seats of Power even though we lack the requirements.
How many of us are willing to give up our positions for the larger good.

I, Me, Myself.....

He was about 24 years of age when he got selected to his first job. But the process of reaching his destination involved a change of 3 Trains. As he stood on the Platform ready to board the second train, he felt threatened by the huge crowd gathered. No sooner the train halted those in - were pushing themselves out, while those on the platform were desperate to get in. The interesting observation was when he noticed those who arrived last were desperately attempting to cajole those on board to squeeze a bit, if only to get a toe hold, but once they got in the same individual would disallow another to board shouting that the train was full and they need to try the next train.   

Sadly this is the situation in all aspects of our life. Mangroves and Forests have been felled to make way for high rises, and once these self-righteous individuals have their dwellings confirmed, they hold placards against the destruction of these very mangroves and forests, as it disturbs their view of the greens.  

Why cannot we be more humane, and help them find alternatives in the neighbourhood, rather than in remote areas where civilisation is yet to be established.