Faith Reflection

The Word of God became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw his glory.

John 1:1-5. 9-14  

As we come to the end of another year, we turn our thoughts to the Christmas Gospel. The reading comes from the very beginning of St. John’s Gospel, which proclaims:

“In the beginning was the Word: the Word was with God, and the Word was God... a light that shines in the dark, a light that darkness could not overpower. The Word was the true light that enlightens all men, and he was coming into the world.”

It is perhaps very fitting that as we close our calendar year, we reflect on where the Gospel begins. From the outset, John provides us with an understanding of who Jesus is and how his story connects with the Old Testament. Just as the world was created through God’s words, so too are Jesus’ words transformative. His message is not merely a collection of ideas—it shapes and becomes the reality around us.

This is illustrated throughout the New Testament. Jesus’ teachings are not only found in his actions but also in his words. He calls Zacchaeus down from the tree to atone for his mistakes, commands the dead Lazarus to “come out,” tells the leper to “be clean,” and calms the sea with the words “be still.” Words have immense power.

Written words also give us a time capsule into a world long since gone. Through them, we can hear the stories of William Shakespeare or the speeches of Martin Luther King Jr. Indeed, many of the greatest ideas today are built on the words of those who have gone before—Plato, Einstein, and Thomas Edison, to name just a few.

It is through words that we are able to read the thoughts of authors from thousands of years ago. It’s humbling to remember that the words of St. John we read today are, albeit translated, the same words listened to by Jews in ancient Rome. Through these words, we share with them a common experience and a timeless message.

As a fan of the Harry Potter series, I am reminded of a quote by Professor Dumbledore:

“Words are, in my not-so-humble opinion, our most inexhaustible source of magic. Capable of both inflicting injury and remedying it.”

Our words matter. What we say shapes the reality of those around us.

This Christmas, we are called by Jesus to proclaim his message of love and kindness and to live it out. Tell your family members that you love them and your friends that you care for them—and show it in your actions.

I wish you a blessed and merry Christmas!

By Jonathan Rooney 

Religious Education Leader