"Lamb of God, who takes away
the sin of the world." -- John 1:29
"I will make you a light to the nations." -- Isaiah 49:6
by Sister Charlene Hockers
We just completed the Christmas season and celebrated the Baptism of Jesus, and now we move into Ordinary Time. But John the Baptist is still at the forefront of today's Gospel. As John sees Jesus coming toward him, he proclaims Jesus to be the Lamb of God. Those words are so familiar to us from the liturgy everyday, but how do we live that statement in our own life? The Lamb comes to us in a gentle, simple way, opening our hearts to people with a breath of peace. He breaks down the walls of fear, aggression, violence and sin. We can grow in the spirit of love if we allow Him to come into the sacred space within us. John the Baptist is calling people to be attentive to the quiet voice and presence of Jesus. We are called to be gentle followers of the Lamb.
John also admitted, "I did not know Him." Do we know Jesus? The Holy Spirit invites us to see Jesus by opening our eyes and our hearts. We need to fix our eyes on Jesus each morning.
In the reading from Isaiah we hear, "I will make you a light to the nations." Those nations can be far and wide, but we can be a light to the far reaches of the human spirit as well. How aware are we of the lonely, desperate, the rejected, the hopeless and the poor? I can be the light of Christ by making Jesus known to others through my quiet voice and constant presence of Jesus in my life.
Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, have mercy on us, grant us peace.
Thanks, Sr. Charlene! You gave me much to think about.
Thank you, Sr. Charlene, for this reflection sending us into the holy place within us where Jesus dwells and out to honor the holy place within each person we meet.
Thanks, Charlene, for the 3 reminders: to listen to the quiet voice of Jesus within, knowing Jesus well, and being a light for others. A strong message for the upcoming week. Peace to you.