Today’s first reading speaks of Elijah as one whose word burned like a torch, consuming falsehood and calling hearts back to God. His life was a sign that the Lord never abandons his people, even in their rebellion. Elijah’s fiery zeal was not for destruction but for purification: to rekindle the covenant love between God and his children. In the Gospel reading, Jesus reveals to his disciples that Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist. Yet, the people failed to recognize him, and he suffered as the prophets before him did. This encounter reminds us that God’s messengers often go unnoticed, their voices drowned by the noise of pride and fear. Still, God continues to speak through them, urging us to repentance. Like Elijah and John, we too are called to prepare the way for the Lord: through courage, and fidelity to the truth. Let us be flames of hope in a world that often forgets the warmth of divine love.

Abba Father, rekindle my heart with your fire of transforming love. Amen.