By Friny Peter Ruwnglal, CSC –
Readings: Is 49:3, 5-6; 1Cor 1:1-3; Jn 1:29-34
Any beginning in life comes with a message guide my life. As I enter into the Second Sunday in the Ordinary Time I am reminded of the humiliation, difficulties, trials and tribulations that will come my way. But the first reading from the book of Isaiah gives me courage and strength to face them boldly without fear. It assures me that God will be there always on my side to go through the challenges that life offers. The second reading from the first letter of St. Paul to Corinthians throws a ray of light on my personal conviction that I am sanctified, called to be an Apostle and Servant of God through the grace and peace of Jesus Christ. Today, St. John the Evangelist in his Gospel highlights John the Baptist as one who recognizes Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. John the Baptist rightly said that he could not know Jesus until it was inspired by God the Father. Then John the Baptist proclaims that he has seen and heard that it is Jesus Christ who would baptize people with the Spirit. Lastly, John testifies that Jesus Christ is truly the Son of God.
Through this reading, I am challenged to know the person of Jesus Christ who accompanies and journeys with me in most difficult and hopeless situations. It did bring me awareness that I cannot know Jesus Christ unless I am in constant relationship with God the Father. Further, I am called to declare and testify who Jesus Christ is for me as John the Baptist did. It is also a call for me to recognize and experience Jesus Christ as one who takes away my sin each time I encounter the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Therefore, it is an invitation to deepen my personal relationship with Jesus Christ and know that he is the one who renews me with a new spirit in mind, heart and soul daily in the Holy Eucharist.