Introduction: “Behold! He is the One Who Comes!”

In this Sunday’s passage, we break from our reading of Matthew’s Gospel (the primary Gospel for our current liturgical year) to read from John’s Gospel. Unlike the other evangelists, John’s Gospel is not concerned primarily with the Baptist’s baptizing mission. Nor does it even mention Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist. As the evangelist John sees it, John the Baptist’s main function is as a witness to Jesus. In fact, he is the first person in the Gospel to be presented as witnessing to him - and recognizing him as “the One.” He announces to all that he knows with certainty that Jesus is the Son of God. He’s the “real thing.”

Do you see Jesus as “the One” in your life?

In this reading, John the Baptist sees Jesus approaching and cries out: “Behold, the Lamb of God! He is the One to come!” He is the One we have been waiting for – for a very long time. Jesus is described and identified as the “Lamb of God,” one of the first titles that John raises in his Gospel. For as the Passover lamb in the Exodus event, Jesus is seen as the liberator – the person who leads from darkness to light, from slavery to freedom. Also, he is viewed as the “suffering servant” as depicted in the writings of the prophet, Isaiah. 

How has Jesus led you to freedom? Identity times.

John concludes his Gospel passage with a further convincing sign – the coming of the Spirit upon Jesus at his baptism. “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from heaven and remain upon him.” 

We have received the same Spirit in our baptism. How has your baptism affected you personally? 

Do people see the Spirit of Jesus within you?

The last sentence – “I have testified that this is the Son of God” - sums up the significance and mission of John: to point the way to Jesus. 

Do our actions and words point to Jesus?

I would invite you to read and ponder the words from the Gospel of John 1:29-34.

What words or words caught your attention? What in this passage comforted/challenged you?

Further Questions and Reflections:

In today’s Gospel we are told of the moment when John the Baptist realized who Jesus was for him. 

When did you come to realize Jesus’ true identity?

Ponder: Jesus, you are our liberator, our redeemer. You free us from our dark tendencies, feelings, and broken-ness – even free us from our lack of love and respect for others and perhaps even ourselves.

Invitation to Communion at Mass: “Behold the Lamb of God. Behold him who takes away the sins of the world. Blessed are those called to the supper of the Lamb.” What are your thoughts as you approach the Eucharist?  

Deacon David

Deacon David Suley
St. Andrew Apostle Catholic Church
Silver Spring, Maryland

Published with Permission

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