2026-01-18 7:00 pm. Celebration of the Holy Mass for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Good evening everyone and welcome to the celebration of the Holy Mass for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Our Gospel reading today (John 1:29-34) is a pivotal passage where John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the "Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world," pointing to His sacrificial role, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies (Passover, Isaiah's Suffering Servant) as the ultimate atonement, not a recurring ritual. Reflections center on Jesus' gentle strength, the call to follow Him (not John), His unique baptism with the Holy Spirit, and our response to this divine revelation, shifting from self-effort to trusting Christ for cleansing and new life, a truth confirmed by the descending Spirit. Key Themes for Reflection The Lamb of God: Jesus is the spotless, perfect sacrifice, the ultimate Passover Lamb, whose single act takes away all sin, not just for a few, but for the whole world, ending the need for repeated animal sacrifices. Humility and Witness: John points away from himself, demonstrating true discipleship by redirecting followers to Jesus, even as they leave him, showing that our purpose is to reveal Christ, not ourselves. Divine Revelation: John's knowledge isn't just intellectual; he sees the Spirit descend like a dove, confirming Jesus as the Son of God, revealing faith as a Spirit-given understanding, not just human effort. The Gift of the Spirit: Jesus offers a different baptism—with the Holy Spirit—bringing inner transformation and new life, contrasting with John's water baptism for repentance. Our Response: This passage calls us to: "Look" and behold Jesus, not ourselves or our efforts to earn salvation. Trust Him as the sufficient sacrifice for our sins. Follow Him as the one who cleanses and empowers us. Proclaim His identity as the Lamb of God, pointing others to Him. Reflection Questions How do you currently try to deal with your sins, and does it align with Jesus as the Lamb who takes them away? Are you pointing people to Christ, or to yourself as a leader/teacher? How do you recognize the Spirit's work in your life and faith? How does the idea of Jesus as the gentle Lamb, rather than a conquering warrior, change your perception of strength? The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 40: "Here I am, O Lord, to do your will."