Commentary

3rd Sunday of Advent – B
John 1: 6 – 8, 19 – 28

A witness sent from God

“A man named John was sent from God. He came for testimony.” This is probably one of the shortest descriptions of any human being with some importance. But it is enough to tell us who John is.

As one sent from God, John’s testimony is authentic and reliable. Because he is from God, he does not hesitate to tell people who he truly is, or rather, who he is not. It is interesting to note that all of his answers are in the negative. He openly “admits” that he is not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet. He does not need to put on airs.

As one sent from God, John’s testimony has God as its authority. Consequently, he does not need to explain the reason behind his action. Moreover, there is a strong sense of certainty when he speaks of himself and of the One who is to come (verses 26 – 27).

Today, as Pope Benedict XVI has often pointed out, we face “the terrorism of relativism.” Everything can become just a matter of opinion. And everyone is entitled to his/her own ideas and feelings. Worse, the view of the majority is often considered the truth even if that view is morally wrong.

In such circumstances, John the Baptist has much to teach us. We must constantly scrutinize the authority behind many issues that we face. At the same time, if we speak God’s word, we need no extra authority or any air to back us up. Before we arrive there, however, we must allow God’s word to speak to us and change our hearts. Then, we can “testify to the light, so that all might believe.”