4 January 2021
Monday after the Epiphany of the Lord/ Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious
Not long ago, we heard a gospel very much like today’s. On the second Sunday of Advent, we heard the equivalent passage from Mark’s Gospel. Once again, shortly after Epiphany, we hear John cry out to each of us “repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand” (Mt. 4:17). If we have moved into a new liturgical season, it would stand to reason we hear different kinds of readings, touching upon the new theme of the new season. Why do we have the repetition here?
The repetition of the gospels allows us an opportunity to examine our consciences. In Advent, we are told that we must get ready for the coming of Christ, who will make all things new. Now, after the 12 days of Christmas and the feast of the Epiphany, we must ask ourselves how we did. When Ebenezer Scrooge was changed by Christmas, for the rest of his life there was a visible difference in his entire existence. Above all, Scrooge showed a tenderness to the poor and the weak, those he had previously ignored. As John calls you to repent, now is the time to ask yourself: has Christmas really changed your life?