Gospel
John 1:29-34
'Look: there is the Lamb of God'
Seeing Jesus coming towards him, John said, ‘Look, there is the lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world. This is the one I spoke of when I said: A man is coming after me who ranks before me because he existed before me. I did not know him myself, and yet it was to reveal him to Israel that I came baptising with water.’ John also declared, ‘I saw the Spirit coming down on him from heaven like a dove and resting on him. I did not know him myself, but he who sent me to baptise with water had said to me, “The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and rest is the one who is going to baptise with the Holy Spirit.” Yes, I have seen and I am the witness that he is the Chosen One of God.’
Reflection
John the Baptist points to Jesus with profound humility and clarity. Though John was a great prophet with his own followers, he recognizes that Jesus "ranks before me because he existed before me." This passage reveals the mission of Christ—to take away the sin of the world—and the authentication of the Holy Spirit descending upon him. John's role was preparatory: to bear witness to the light, not to be the light himself. His testimony teaches us that true discipleship means directing others toward Christ, not toward ourselves. The image of the lamb evokes sacrifice and innocence, foreshadowing Jesus's ultimate offering of himself for humanity's redemption.
Question for Reflection
Where in my life am I called to be like John the Baptist—pointing others toward Jesus rather than seeking attention or recognition for myself? How can I better witness to Christ's presence in my daily encounters?
Prayer
Lamb of God, you who take away the sins of the world, help me to recognize your presence in my life as John did. Give me the humility to decrease so that you may increase, and the courage to bear witness to your love and mercy. May your Holy Spirit rest upon me and guide me to lead others closer to you. Amen.
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