Homily for Friday of the Weekdays of Christmas

A prominent aspect of John the Baptist's portrayal is his generosity of spirit. John was a charismatic figure who attracted many followers and had his own disciples. However, in today's gospel passage, we see John directing two of his followers away from himself and toward the One he identified as the Lamb of God. These two disciples eventually become followers of Jesus. By positively responding to John's invitation to seek the Lamb of God, they accept Jesus' invitation to "come and see."

John's attitude and actions exemplify the best of human nature, demonstrating love as an expression of God's love. When we love others in a way that mirrors God's love for them, we genuinely desire what is best for them, which often means letting them go to those who can help them grow as human beings and as children of God in ways that we may not be able to. Ultimately, it is the Lord who can help us fully develop as individuals and as children of God.

The greatest act of love we can show others is guiding them toward the Lord, just as John the Baptist guided his own disciples. There was only so much John could do in leading his disciples to Jesus; they had to respond personally to Jesus' call to "come and see." The same is true for us. At some point, each of us must make our own personal response to the Lord's individual call to come and see and then remain with Him.