Walking with Jesus: Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

For January 15, 2023

Isaiah 49:3, 5-6; 1 Corinthians 1:1-3; John 1:29-34

Whom do I consider great? Is it a person well-known, famous in a certain area or areas? Is this person a family member, relative, boss, work companion, teacher, one known in my community? Down through the years I have had numerous people replace my original choice because a new one touched me when and where I needed it most. Many years ago I was given a copy of a “letter” that was written by a young person whose father had died at a relatively young age. It read: “A great man died today” … and the youngster listed why he felt this person was great. He concluded, “that great man was my dad.” I’m sure tears were concealed.

Today’s readings describe every Christian’s role to be “a light to the nations” [Isaiah 49:6]. It is no accident that the first Vatican II document is titled “Lumen Gentium”… “Light to the Nations.” Paul writes how he was called to be “an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God” [1 Corinthians 1:1]. He continues, writing that he has been “… called to be holy, with all those everywhere who call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours” [1 Corinthians 1:2]. In the Gospel, John the Evangelist — originally a follower of John the Baptist — writes: “John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. … Now I have seen and testified that He is the Son of God’” [John 1:29, 34].

Is it an accident that I have been born into this place at this time in history? Could the individuals who have appeared in my life and touched me immensely just happened by chance? Could our entire world have been created by gods just out of curiosity? Am I just a novelty in God’s eyes? I believe firmly that I have a role to play in the salvation of the people God has placed in my life. Is it possible that, in generations to come, someone could find this blog and have it change their relationship with God? Each of us is called to manifest God’s Light to Nations … our love, caring, forgiveness and kindness to all peoples within the circumstances of our lives. SO, the real question becomes: “Am I being faithful to that call to be a light to the nations?” Again we turn to the readings for a deeper clarification.

From chapter 40 onward, the oracles of Isaiah shift three times:

1. Warning of a coming exile because the people have not listened to God or observed His commandments;
2. Comforting the people in that despite their tribulations and exile, God is always with them and they should trust in Him;
3. Restoring: God’s restoration of the people and the temple in Jerusalem.

Prominent in Isaiah's writings is the servant of the Lord — the coming Messiah — who will restore God’s plan and be our Redeemer and Savior, Jesus Christ. This always has been God’s plan and Israel’s purpose. The modus operandi is a constant returning to God for you, me and everyone.   

Paul writes that his conversion is not an accident: God has always planned this; his apostolic vocation is divinely willed. He adds that the Corinthians have received a similar vocation that has to be continued to be lived out. Like Paul, the Corinthians and all the faithful everywhere — then and now — “are called to be holy” [1 Corinthians 1:2]. That is accomplished by calling for God’s help and strength which is God’s grace. Do I ask for this?

The Gospel focuses on the important role of the Baptist: He gave testimony to Jesus; this is the Lamb of God. He is the one through whom God’s plan will be manifested to the world. Jesus pre-existed everyone … He is the Son of God … He is the bearer of the Holy Spirit. John the Baptist states that he did not see this; he is bearing witness to it. These words appear five times in John’s first chapter and include the word “martyr” … applying to Jesus, Son of God.

Who am I? What am I? What am I called to be? It’s all about Jesus, who gave me birth and didn't just leave and forget about me. He created me to be an important part of His mission to let all the people in my life be touched with my life … my love … my caring … my gifts … my witness. As a person God created out of love, I am to be love ... so that all know God’s love and carry on my individual mission. All are called in this same fashion.

So I reflect on:

• Like John, I must continue to tell the story of God’s love and continue pointing to the One whose life, death and resurrection has changed the world. What gifts have I discovered within myself that are unique to me and have led others to be lovers and carers and forgivers?
• Jesus Christ is the real story. John the Baptist tells us: “He must increase, I must decrease.” [John 3:30] Am I open to this great act of God’s loving presence in my life?

Sacred Space 2023 states:

“Reflecting on this scripture passage, you might hear Jesus say to you the words He says to every disciple, ‘And who do you say that I am?’ Tell Him how you see and feel about Him, and then listen to how much He appreciates you for remaining with Him as His companion.”

Note: Today’s Sacred Space is a very serious reflection: It’s going to take bravery to be honest … open … truthful. Please remember that God knows you and me just the way we are right now ... AND LOVES US TOTALLY JUST THE WAY WE ARE NOW. Go to Him … let GOD be GOD to you … to me. It’s what He does!