An Exceptional Relationship
A Reflection for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time by Brent Smith
Director of Adult Faith Formation & Evangelization
As the first week of Ordinary Time concludes, the readings for this Sunday focus on models for being in a relationship with God. While the Mass provides us with the richest moments with Jesus Christ, a review of some outstanding testimonies will enrich our awareness of Christ’s presence in the Word & Eucharist.
In the passage from Isaiah, the prophet is someone sent to fulfill God’s will. By attentively listening & sharing what God desires, Isaiah represents the ideal servant of God. Along with a spirit of receptivity, he believes God consecrated him while still in his mother’s womb. He further expresses belief in God as the source of human dignity, “I am made glorious in the sight of the Lord, and my God is now my strength” (Isaiah 49:5). God’s goodness shines through every one of us, and we are made courageous by the Holy Spirit!
As St. Paul begins his first letter to the Christians in Corinth, Greece, he repeats a belief held by prophets like Isaiah. As “an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God” (1 Corinthians 1:1), Paul is sent on behalf of the Beloved Son to fulfill his greatest desire meant for every person. Here we grasp what motivates this saint to live a robust Christian life. He both proclaimed & embodied the Father’s desire for men & women alike to experience lasting sanctity.
The Gospel for this Sunday presents us with profound testimony from John the Baptist. Just as his mother Elizabeth understood Mary as more than a younger relative – “And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:43) – John’s relationship with Jesus is elevated to a supernatural reality. No longer simply cousins, John is the herald of the Messiah, the one who would sacrifice His life for the salvation of the world. Divine revelation allows John to say “Behold, the Lamb of God… I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known” (John 1:29-31). John the Baptist had the privilege of recognizing the sanctifying presence of Jesus Christ.
Please pray with me: Heavenly Father, from the abundance of Your love, You consecrate me as Your beloved child. Every day I desire to receive such glory with gratitude. Thank You for communicating Your salvation through the life of Christ. Amen.