Gospel Reflection - 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A


John 1:29-34

From the moment John the Baptist first encountered Jesus (at the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth), he began his ministry of preparing the way for our Savior. His leaping in Elizabeth’s womb awakened her senses to the Divine presence in Mary’s womb. “And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:43)

Now, as an adult, he testifies that Jesus is the “…Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” Here we see the completion of his ministry as he passes the baton to Jesus. John’s baptism of water was of repentance. As the Son of God, Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit, removing the effects of Original Sin and giving us a sharing of His Life, Death, and Resurrection.

“Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.” (John 1:34)

John knew this was his time to step back from public ministry, surrendering to Jesus the mission of salvation. We, too, at times need to take that step back as well. Often, we find ourselves trying to control situations, telling God what we want Him to do for us. Even when our intentions seem to be good, they may not align with His great plan for us. We need to relinquish control, surrendering and trusting that God knows the right path for us.

How might you imitate John the Baptist’s mission of making Jesus known? (This question was taken from Living Liturgy 2023, pg. 43.)

What situation(s) do you currently need to step back from to allow God to work out His plan in your life?

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