Good morning dear parishioners here and those following us via live stream.
After Jesus baptism, Jesus walks away to begin his ministry and John says to one of his disciples, Andrew there goes “ The Lamb of God”.
Even though we are in the liturgical year “B” and readings are from the Gospel of St. Mark, some may have noticed that today’s Gospel reading is from St. John. This implies that a message of importance will be imparted.
The readings from the Gospel of St. John, introduces us to John the Baptist recognizing Jesus as “ The Lamb of God” and how his disciple Andrew, immediately left him and followed Jesus.
And so, when John the Baptist says these strange words, “Behold, the Lamb of God,” as Jesus walks on by, and they follow him right away.
Why?
Because the Lamb of God, is the lamb that is sacrificed at the great feast of the Passover and represents the self-sacrifice of all the people of Israel to God himself, you see. So, it is a Messianic title, and the two know that, so they follow him.
How Simon Peter, through his brother, Andrew’s testimony: “We have found the Messiah.” Also came to follow Jesus.
Today’s message in our readings and the Gospel are simple and easy understood. We have messages of “LISTENING” and “RESPONDING” to the “CALL” from Jesus.
The first reading narrates the vocation of Samuel. Amidst the hunches of God calling him, Samuel replies: “Speak, for your servant is listening”
Both the responsorial psalm and the Gospel show us the proper response to God’s calling, to our Divine vocation:
“Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will (PS 39).” “the two disciples heard what he said and followed Jesus.”
God has a specific plan for each one of us in this world.
For example, as a married person, or as a celibate person, be it in priesthood, deaconate, religious consecration, or lay religious order.
“Here I am, lord. I have come to do your will.”
In Isaiah: 49 vs 15 -16 we read: -
Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you. See, I have inscribed you on the palms of my hands.
Did I ever imagine being called to serve this way? Honestly, no. And why did I decide to come back to serve; partly because Fr. Michael needed help during this Pandemic but more because of the Psalm” Here I am Lord, I come to do your will”.
God never stops calling you. You must listen and decide what is more important in your life and ultimately, realize that by serving him, you serve mankind.
God is not in the heavens; so, do not look upwards.
He is here on earth; amongst the poor; the sick; the homeless etc.
This, reply, however, is not only given once in a lifetime, but rather, must be actualized day in and day out, for God’s will is manifested not only once in our life, but many times during the day.
Let us then ask God for us to do our part and to put the means in order to discover our specific Divine vocation and respond with the same words of the Psalm 39:
“HERE I AM LORD, I HAVE COME TO DO YOUR WILL”
Not only once but with an actual, renewed and daily generous response.
May God bless you all.