To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Commentary on the Gospel for Tuesday, December 31, 2024
Grace Upon Grace
The Gospel of John, so theological and philosophical, might seem challenging to understand. However, on this last day of the year, there are several luminous insights in this passage. One is the proclamation of truth. In a world, a society, and a political landscape that often feel filled with lies and corruption, the announcement of truth brought by the incarnate Son of God is profoundly comforting. To live in His light, in the Word, means to live in truth. There is something far greater than the trivialities and corruptions of the world—the enduring truth.
Another comforting message is knowing that we have received “grace upon grace.” This phrase invites reflection. In a year perhaps filled with challenges, hardships, and conflict, what could “grace upon grace” mean? At times, it can be hard to recognize amidst pain. Yet, we need to delve deeper into the message: to those who received Him, He gave the right to become children of God. There lies the grace—the assurance of an immense dignity that surpasses any situation we may face, whether of intense joy or sorrow.
Once, a very poor woman with little education, living amid countless domestic and financial difficulties, told me: “I am always joyful because I know I am the daughter of a great King.” That assurance gives us the confidence and hope to walk through both pain and joy. We are certain of who we are. And that certainty, no matter what happens—no matter how big the lies, no matter how distressing the situation—grants us immense strength. From His fullness, we have all received grace upon grace.
This means that from the fullness of the Incarnation of the Word—from that eternal Word that illuminates all life and accompanies us through every journey—we are sustained. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never overcome it, because darkness vanishes the moment there is even a small ray of light. And this light is stronger than any darkness, no matter how vast it may seem.