Sunday, 19th Jan., 2014: Inspirations from the Gospel (John 1:29-34)

Sunday, 19^th Jan., 2014: Inspirations from the Gospel (John 1:29-34)

In the Gospel reading, John the Baptist reveals the identity and mission of Christ as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world”. Before Christ, lambs were special animals usually slaughtered at the temple for the remission of sins. Christ appeared not as a lamb or one of those lambs but as “THE LAMB” indicating a definite identity and as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” indicating a divine mission. Thus, the identity of Christ becomes that of an innocent victim and his mission is to be sacrificed for the forgiveness of our sins. 

On the cross, this Lamb slaughtered himself for the forgiveness of our sins and the effect of this self-sacrifice is the reconciliation between God and man. The blood of this lamb smeared on our souls identifies us as the chosen people of God and protects us from the angel of death. Since the purpose of this Lamb is for sacrifice, this Lamb continues to sacrifice itself daily on our altars bringing us divine forgiveness, reconciliation, healing, favours and protection. How well and how often do you partake in this sacrifice? 

As Catholics specifically, we can partake in this sacrifice through active involvement in the Sunday liturgy. As Christians in general, we can equally partake in the sacrifice by offering ourselves as victims for the good of others. How do you feel when your labours become a source of joy for others? As you enjoy your Sunday, may the blood of this Lamb continue to wash you clean and grant you protection in the coming week. Good morning and happy Sunday.