Akshi Wary csc.
Readings: 1 Jn 2: 29 – 3: 6; Jn 1: 29-34
Today’s readings encourage us to cultivate a healthy relationship and underscore the associated responsibilities. Both readings convey the message that in any relationship, one must dedicate oneself to the other and strive to understand them. Loving God entails learning to forgive and striving for perfection, while recognizing the importance and dignity of others.
This foundation forms the basis for a strong relationship with God and fellow human beings. In today’s gospel passage, John the Baptist declares that his relationship with Jesus is characterized by inequality, signifying that he considers Jesus as more important and superior.
Scripture provides numerous examples of individuals who prioritize the importance of others, such as Mother Mary, who hastily visited her cousin, the Centurion who pleaded for his servant, the poor widow who offered all that she had and the Good Samaritan who showed compassion to the wounded man on the road to Jericho.
In a relationship each one is important, but consideration for other is much more important for healthy spiritual growth for both parties. The readings emphasize the importance of maintaining strong and connected relationships, even in times of darkness and struggles, with the understanding that our efforts, coupled with faith, will be complemented by divine intervention.