A Few Words On "The Word"

June 24, 2007
Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist, Year C

Luke 1:57-66, 80

Serving on Purpose!

Have you ever been labeled as someone "weird" or "odd?" Perhaps you have interests that are not mainstream or considered hip. Perhaps the people you hang around with are really judgmental or insecure. They may be jealous that you have connected in with something that gives you meaning in life, a sense of who you are.

Sticking out and being different can also lead us into experiences that force us toward the margins of our society. While many people strive to find purpose and meaning in life, our culture tends to portray those who live with true purpose as weak or even a little crazy. Most people know more about the intimate lives of today's pop star than they do about the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. Triviality trumps all perhaps because we can't understand why anyone would live a life of radical sacrifice and service.

Our faith is packed with examples of people who stuck out and lived purpose filled lives. Today's reading provides an excellent example. Before he was even born John the Baptist was given the task of heralding the coming of Jesus, the promised Messiah. Talk about a purpose! Do you think John would willingly have chosen to live in the desert eating locusts and honey if he hadn't been filled with a clear vision of God's purpose for him? No way!

Living a purpose filled life isn't always easy; it requires sacrifice and a commitment to our call. It doesn't mean that we will never ask the deep questions about life. However, it does encourage us to look to God for a clearer understanding of the world.

Like John we were given an incredible purpose before we were even born! We too have been called to proclaim Jesus' coming. Our faith helps us realize this purpose and make sense of life's many questions. When we truly begin to live with a purpose pointing to Christ just as John did, our priorities begin to reflect our desire to build God's kingdom. Realizing our purpose gives us strength, fulfillment, and the hope of eternal salvation. We care a little less about being labeled as crazy or radical and material wants seemingly fade as we seek to serve others. Let's begin to live as people of purpose, following Jesus wherever he leads, declaring God's kingdom to a world in need.

Reflection Question

When did you first begin to realize the purpose God has given you? Who or what helped you to make sense of its reality?

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