Advent Reflection Day 12

"Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist;
yet the least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than he.”

This line in today’s gospel reading from Matthew is striking. The “least” among us are all those we count out. Those on the margins of society. Society counts people out based on the power they do not have. The power of money, influence, education, body, are just a few examples.

If we allow our concept of power to change from power as influence to power as love, then we begin to recognize the least. We recognize their great joy in simple living. We recognize the freedom experienced in their care for family and how faith becomes a priority.

“But I love! I believe! Why are the least any better?” This isn’t about a reversal of roles. Jesus is speaking to us about the fundamental building blocks of faith. Love and faith. These become the most important things even when everything, even good things, fall away.

Today, take a moment to think about a group of the “least” in our society. Consider what lessons they can teach you. Then consider how, as a society, we can reach out to them.

​Photo by Bui Hoang Lien on Unsplash

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