Daily Catholic Lectio. Sat, 10 January ‘26. This Is My Joy

Daily Catholic Lectio

Sat, 10 January ‘26

Saturday after Epiphany

1 John 5:14–21. John 3:22–30

This Is My Joy

Very often we think joy comes from being first—being noticed, being admired, being sought after. We imagine that joy belongs to those at the centre, to those who attract crowds and attention. But today, John the Baptist teaches us a different joy. Not the joy of the spotlight, but the joy of faithfulness. He says with deep peace: “This joy of mine is now complete.”

The Gospel scene takes place by the river Jordan. A discussion arises because people are going to Jesus. Some come to John and say, almost with anxiety, “Everyone is going to him.” John does not feel threatened. He does not compete. Standing by the flowing river, he understands life as movement, not possession. From this place, he teaches us three lasting lessons about joy.

First: everyone has a work and a reward.

John is clear: “No one can receive anything except what has been given from heaven.” Each person is entrusted with a task, and each task has its own grace. Being the Messiah is one mission; preparing the way is another. Comparison only steals joy—comparison makes us feel either inferior or superior, and both are traps. Joy grows when we accept our own calling with gratitude. God does not ask us to do another’s work, only to do our own well.

Second: know your boundaries and rejoice there.

John uses a simple image: the bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom does not compete; he rejoices when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. John knows where he stands—and he is happy there. Joy is not found in crossing boundaries, but in inhabiting them with freedom. When we accept who we are—and who we are not—we discover peace.

Third: rejoice in the growth of others.

John’s words are among the most generous in the Gospel: “He must increase; I must decrease.” This is not loss; it is fulfilment. True joy is not diminished when another grows. In God’s garden, more than one plant can flourish. When we celebrate the success, the holiness, the growth of others, our own hearts expand.

All this wisdom is learned by the river. A river teaches humility and hope. It flows, it moves, it never stays the same. “No one steps into the same river twice,” says Heraclitus. Life moves forward; so do we. John understands that his moment is passing—and he is at peace with that. He knows that someone greater is coming, and that thought fills him with joy.

This is the joy John offers us today: to accept our task, to stay within our calling, and to rejoice when God’s work grows—even when it grows beyond us. Such joy is quiet, deep, and complete.

Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi

Archdiocese of Madurai

Missionary of Mercy