"Lamb of God: Embracing Our Calling"
Dear cherished family in faith,
Imagine walking alongside John the Baptist, the Jordan River flowing nearby, the air filled with anticipation. Suddenly, John stops, his gaze fixed on a figure approaching. With reverence, he whispers, "Look, the Lamb of God!" (John 1:36). In this moment, Jesus, humble yet majestic, is introduced as more than just a man; He is the fulfillment of a rich tapestry of faith and hope.
For our Jewish brothers and sisters, "Lamb of God" resonates deeply, woven into the very fabric of their history and worship. But what does this mean for us, today's diverse congregation? Let's explore together, with open hearts.
The "Lamb of God" first evokes the Atoning Lamb of Yom Kippur, a sacred symbol of forgiveness, bearing the weight of Israel's sins (Leviticus 16:20-22). Each year, this lamb's sacrifice renewed the covenant between God and His people.
Then there's the Daily Atoning Lamb, offered each dawn and dusk (Exodus 29:38-43). This ritual, a constant reminder of God's presence and mercy, was an integral part of daily worship.
The Passover Lamb paints a vivid picture of deliverance (Exodus 12:11 ff). Its blood, a shield against destruction, marked the homes of the faithful, leading Israel from slavery to freedom.
Prophets like Jeremiah and Isaiah likened the suffering servant to a lamb, silent before its shearers, embodying humility and sacrifice for others' redemption.
Finally, the Lamb of Conquest, a symbol of the Maccabees' victorious struggles, represents triumph over adversity, a beacon of hope in times of darkness.
So, which of these images mirrors Jesus' mission? Astonishingly, each one. Jesus, the Lamb of God, encompasses sacrifice, redemption, silent suffering, and ultimate victory over sin and death. His life and mission echo these ancient symbols, bringing them to fulfillment.
In this beautiful mosaic, one truth stands clear: the Lamb acts not on its own will, but in obedience and surrender to God. Herein lies the heart of our calling, our vocation. To be like this Lamb means to listen, to surrender, to be ready for sacrifice, embracing God's will over our own.
