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Reflection for Sunday 01/20/08

READINGS
First Reading: Isaiah 49:3, 5-6
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:1-3
Gospel: John 1:29-34

REFLECTION:
John the Baptist’s role was to prepare the way for the Messiah by preaching repentance and baptizing believers. One day John the Baptist saw Jesus approaching and in that moment realized that Jesus was the Messiah. John proclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world…” How joyful John must have been! John had been preparing himself for this moment for years. He had led a life of sacrifice and prayer, keeping himself open to the Word of God. He sought the truth and shared it with as many as he could reach. And here, present before him, was the Messiah! The question to us, of course, is how well prepared are we to recognize Jesus the Messiah? How open are we to his presence in our lives? Jesus promised to be present with us always. We believe that, but do we experience it? Do we recognize Jesus in the loyalty of family, in the kindness of strangers, in the hope of youth, in the wisdom of experience? Perhaps following John the Baptist’s example of prayer and sacrifice will help us recognize Jesus’ loving presence in our lives.

1. When have you been surprised to see goodness that you had overlooked in someone?
2. Who has surprised you by doing something kind for you when did not expect it?

PRAYER:
Jesus, help us to more aware of your presence in our lives and help us to become signs of your faithful love to others. Amen.

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