Luke 7, 31-35:
“John the Baptist comes, not eating bread, not drinking wine and you say, ‘He is possessed.’ The Son of Man comes, eating and drinking and you say, ‘Look a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners”.
The line followed by John the Baptist in his life was a line of tough austerity. Living in the desert, he fed on insects and wild honey. Wearing this austerity also in his clothing and even in his way of relating to others.
Jesus is very different. His austerity has only one motive and end: The proclamation of the Kingdom and unconditional service to others. He only goes to the desert to pray to the Father and confirm his mission. We see Jesus always surrounded by people. Interacting with all those who seek him or those he is looking for.
He talks to people, cares for the people, rejoices with the people and even weeps with the people.
Live like Jesus also in austerity.
But, also like Jesus, enjoy life. Open yourself up to relationships and togetherness. Live the joys and anxieties of your people and of your world.
And that your austerity by always motivated and caused by your love and dedication to others.
Good day.
Antonio Sanjuan Marin, cmf
