Reflection
Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
John 1:29
Individualistic notions of salvation do not reflect God’s action embracing our shared vulnerability as humanity. The symbol of the lamb signifies God’s willingness to be vulnerable and absorbed into our broken history. God’s message is for the “cosmos” and “humanity,” not just private individuals. There is no dominance or separation. God embraces the whole not just parts. Jesus is the one who fulfills this collective redemption. In Jesus God’s saving action is found embracing our shared vulnerability as humanity. Jesus is symbolized by the Lamb, rather than in symbols of dominance or separation. John baptized with water and called to repentance. Jesus,himslf baptized by the Spirit, brings a new and radical redefinition of power and redemption.
Prayer
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world grant us peace.
Action
Reflect on the fact that God’s vivifying power embraces all creation. Reflect on the times the gospels show that Jesus lives by compassion not dominance and power.
Suggested Reading
Has no one condemned you? Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.
John 8:10-11
Compassion is a matter of humanity, not a religious issue… It is in the simple act of caring for others—regardless of background—that we reflect the true heart of Christ and the best of humanity.
Pope Leo XIV
Compassion is the language of God.
Pope Francis
Jesus disclosed that God is compassionate. Compassion is the primary quality of the central figures in two of his most famous parables: the father in the parable of the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan. And Jesus himself, as a manifestation of the sacred, is often spoken of as embodying compassion.
Marcus Borg
Only by receiving God’s glory and becoming vessels of passionate love can we fulfill our destiny as co-lovers and co-creators, bringing the universe to its completion in God’s infinite, unifying love.
ilia Delio
homecoming has several dimensions. It involves coming home to where God first encounters us, not with the threat of judgment or punishment, but with the embrace of unconditional love.
Diarmuid O’Murchu
The greatest honor we can give Almighty God is to live gladly because of the knowledge of his love.J
ulian of Norwich