Remain

Homily for January 2, 2025

One of the ways in which Scripture scholars identify the authorship of the Scriptures is by looking at the vocabulary used by the writer. Today’s first reading from the First Letter of St. John repeats a very familiar word from St. John’s vocabulary; namely, the word “remain.”

St. John’s use of this word connotes the idea of continuing to exist after other elements no longer exist. We are exhorted to continue in our relationship with Jesus and the Father after others have chosen to abandon that relationship. St. John uses this word over and over again because the early Christian community is being tempted by certain elements within the community to forsake the faith that they have heard from the beginning. It is essential, according to St. John, to remain loyal to the Gospel they have heard so that when Jesus returns, they will have proved and improved the relationship that began when they came to faith and were baptized and anointed.

The Gospel text for this day retells the story of John who came to witness to the light that has come into the world. He is questioned by the priests and Levites who have come to Bethany from Jerusalem. John begins by telling them who he is not: he is not the Christ nor is he the prophet. This is not to say that he isn’t a prophet; he simply does not want to be identified with the prophet that they are expecting. John’s forthright answer to their questions proves him to be a loyal witness.

We have all been called to follow Christ and to lead others to him. Each of us has our own distinct way to live out this mission. Whatever we are called to be in the world, we must discern how our vocation must be used to bring others closer to God – through our work, through our ministry, through our family life, and through the times of our recreation. Each of these instances is an opportunity to “remain” loyal to the Lord and to the Father. Remaining with Jesus will bring us that which all of us desire; namely, joy which will cause us to sing the new song occasioned by the saving power of God.