Message and Deeds

Gospel: John 5: 33-36

Many came to hear the message of John the Baptist, a message of repentance and an announcement of the imminent coming of the Messiah.  Many thought perhaps John himself was the Messiah, but this was a mistake.  John's mission was one of announcement and message.

By contrast, the mission of the Messiah was to do the works of the Father, i.e. the works of mercy offered to all people everywhere.  Jesus did not come to announce anything or to provide any messages.  Jesus came to do works of mercy - to forgive and heal, love and console.  

This same dynamic can exist in our own lives during this time of Advent and beyond.  If we accept the message of repentance and sincerely atone for sin in our lives, then we are open to receiving the works of God and to do the works of God in our daily life: to offer mercy and forgiveness for all; to provide healing to the sick, lame, deaf, blind, and leprous; to liberate the dead and imprisoned; to welcome the stranger; to offer love and consolation for all.