Daily Gospel Reflection for January 3, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: John 1:29-34

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” John 1:29

We hear John the Baptist’s prophetic words as Jesus approaches repeated by the celebrant before Communion at each Mass. The priest elevates the Host and petitions us to see and recognize Him in the Eucharist. What do you think of when you hear the words, “Lamb of God?”

Your first impression might be of a gentle and docile, wooly, white creature – a symbol of childlike sweetness and innocence. In His love and forgiveness, Jesus is, indeed, gentle like a lamb. However, John was referring to His role as the sacrificial Lamb – the Messiah who would save us from our sins by dying on the Cross. We are reminded with these words that Jesus came to earth not to enjoy comfort and ease, but to give His life to redeem us. This image of Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb is challenging and uncomfortable. It calls to mind the suffering and death He endured for our sins. It pierces our hearts and calls us out of our complacency to repentance and conversion.

John’s whole ministry of baptism with water was to prepare the way for Jesus. When Jesus was revealed by the Holy Spirit, John identified Him as the Savior, humbly pointing people away from himself and to Jesus. Like John, we can help lead others to Jesus with our lives, boldly proclaiming “Behold, the Lamb of God” to those we encounter each day.

Ponder:

What are some ways I can point to Jesus with my life, leading others to Him?

Pray:

Jesus, thank You for sacrificing Your life on the cross for our salvation. Help me to recognize You as the sacrificial Lamb each time I receive You in Holy Communion. Like John the Baptist, may I boldly proclaim with my life that You are the Savior of the world.

Daily Gospel 2