Identity before Mission

From the very beginning, this Sunday’s readings remind us that our lives are not accidental. Isaiah (49:3, 5-6) speaks of a servant formed in the womb, known and called by God before any work is accomplished. God does not simply call us to discipleship and then walk away. God’s grace shapes, strengthens, and sustains those who are attentive to it. What may feel small or hidden in our lives is never insignificant to God, or to our personal identity, or to our mission.

The psalm (40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10) gives voice to a heart that knows it is held by God. “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.” This is not the cry of someone who has everything figured out, but of someone who knows that God is with them (Emmanuel).

In his greeting to the Corinthians (1Cor 1:1-3), Saint Paul grounds identity before mission. Before we do anything for God, we belong to God who walks with us as we learn how to respond.

The Gospel (Jn1:29-34) brings everything into focus as John the Baptist points and says, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” John’s role is not to draw attention to himself, but to make Christ known. He testifies to what he has seen, even admitting that he did not understand everything at first. Faith often unfolds this way. We recognize Christ gradually, through the Spirit’s proddings in our lives.

Together, these readings invite us to consider how the psalmist, Paul, and John are called by God and to consider how we too are called to belong and witness in our own ways.

1. Do you believe yourself to be called by Christ? How does that shape your identity?

2. What are the characteristics of a dynamic disciple today?

3. How are you being called to discipleship in this season of your life?