As we enter the first "Ordinary" week of the year, the Church presents us with a deep realization: there is nothing "ordinary" about our calling. Today’s readings function like a three-act play, moving from an ancient promise to a personal invitation, and  finally to a public witness.

In the first act, the prophet Isaiah speaks of a Servant who feels small or hidden. Yet, God’s voice breaks through with a startling ambition. It is not enough, God says, for this Servant to merely  restore a small corner of the world. Instead, God declares, "I will make you a light to the nations." This sets the stage for everything that follows—the promise that God’s love is a fire intended to reach the ends of the earth.

This universal mission is brought into our own lives through the second act: St. Paul’s letter to the  Corinthians. Paul reminds us that the "light" Isaiah spoke of, isn't just a historical figure from the past; it is a reality we carry now. He addresses us as those "sanctified in Christ Jesus" and "called to be holy." Paul’s message is a bridge between the ancient prophecy and our modern pews. He tells us that by our Baptism, we have been "set apart." Our holiness isn't for our own sake; it is the fuel that allows Isaiah’s promised light to shine through us in our schools, workplaces, homes, and
community.

The story reaches its climax in the Gospel of John, where we encounter John the Baptist standing at the water’s edge. When he sees Jesus approaching, he doesn't use titles of worldly power or royalty.   Instead, he points and cries out, "Behold, the Lamb of God." In this moment, the "Light" from Isaiah and the "Sanctifier" from Paul’s letter are revealed in the flesh. John the Baptist shows us the ultimate purpose of a disciple: to stand back so that Christ can be seen. He recognizes that his own mission is only successful if it leads people away from himself and toward the one who truly takes away the sin of the world. This view is summed up in just a few words, a few chapters later in John's Gospel (3:30), during John the Baptist's final testimony about Jesus, "He must increase; I must  decrease."

When we combine these three perspectives, we see the complete picture of our Christian life. We are the "Servants" called to be a light; we are the "Saints" sanctified by grace; and we are the "Witnesses" tasked with pointing others toward the Lamb. As we receive the Eucharist this  Sunday—the very Lamb of God John described—may we go forth not just as people who have heard a story, but as people who are ready to live it.

A few reflection questions for the week...

      · Recognition: John the Baptist recognized Jesus because he was actively watching for Him. Where have I seen the "Lamb of God" at work in my life          this past week?

      · The Burden: Jesus comes to take away the "sin of the world." What is one burden, habit, or regret I am ready to hand over to Him today?

      · Testimony: John’s mission was to point others to Christ. How can I use my words or actions this week to point a friend or family member toward             God’s love?

Lord, give us eyes to recognize You and a heart to follow You. Help us to be bold witnesses of Your light, just as John was, in all our "ordinary" moments.

May the blessings of our Almighty Father continue to bless us in this new year of 2026.

Deacon Frank