The gospel tells us that when Jesus saw the crowds, he saw them, not with his eyes, but by the compassion of his heart. He saw every kind of life’s status: the poor and rich, the elderly and young, the orphans and widows, the proud and humble, homeless, the lame, the blind, the sick, and the strangers, then with love he told them “blessed are you...” Then he enumerated to them clearly the beatitudes, one by one. And the beatitudes ignited hope, and conversion in their hearts, because they are blessings that never fade and graces that never end.
In today's Gospel, we see Jesus's reaction to the news that his cousin John has been arrested: he goes into seclusion back at home in Galilee, maybe for one last visit home with Mary, and then begins gathering the band of followers who will become his apostles.
When we say the words of the Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, during Mass, we are directly quoting John the Baptist. The scene is set on the banks of the Jordan River. John has been gathering disciples by powerfully calling for repentance in light of the coming kingdom of God. One day, as he sees Jesus, he cries out, "Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world!"
“Lamb of God” is Jesus’ identity! “Who takes the sin of the world” is his mission! And when the “Lamb of God takes away the sin of the world,” we witness a fundamental spiritual changing moment: we witness the power of Jesus’ creative love.
On this first Sunday of Ordinary Time, we recall the Baptism of the Lord. But, in addition to remembering this historical event, we also are asked to call to mind our own baptism. Why? Because our baptism isn't just an event from the past, but a present reality that impacts every aspect of our lives.
Today, God’s divine touch, remodels us to become his divine faces on earth, so that we can assume with honor our identity as his beloved. Take Note: “Look in the mirror each day… [and] as spiritual practice, claim and reclaim your primal identity as beloved daughter or son of a personal Creator.”
The story of the magi, the three wise men, who traveled from the East to pay homage to Jesus as the King of the Jews, is part of our Christmas tradition. The magi, after a detour to see King Herod, brought their most valuable possessions to lay at the feet of the newborn King.