HOMILY - FR. JAMES NADEAU - 3RD SUNDAY OF ADVENT 2020
The Christmas song, "Little Drummer Boy" is a simple song that became the basis of several shows, plays, and a children's book. Because of this, we are all familiar with the story of the little boy who offered the Christ child all he had to give - his music. It was a humble gift compared to gold, frankincense, and myrrh, but because it came from his heart, the Christ-child smiled.
From his heart . . . it was all he had to give. He gave witness to the new born King.
The gospel reading presents John the Baptist as a witness. In fact, did you hear how many times he refers to Christ. Nothing in the reading is about John; it is all about Christ. John came only to testify to the Light.
John had a clear sense of who he was. His self identity was rooted in his faith. John saw everything he did as an outward expression of his faith. He clearly understood his place in the world as a witness for Christ.
the Little Drummer Boy gave witness to the Newborn King.
John the Baptist's whole life was a witness to God.
What about us?
Who are you?
What do you have to say about yourself?
This Advent asks us for the essence of who we are. It asks us to reveal the foundation of our identity . . . like John the Baptist.
The Little Drummer Boy and John the Baptist each give us a clear message: Give witness to the Faith.
Do we give witness or are we in the Witness Protection Program?
Let your witness be seen. Let your witness be heard.