Year A
Epiphany
Second Sunday after the Epiphany
Contextual Background:
John points to Jesus as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.” Two disciples follow, and when Jesus asks what they are seeking, they answer, “Where are you staying?” Jesus invites them: “Come and see.”
Within the Jewish Tradition:
The image of the lamb connects to Passover — God’s deliverance of Israel from slavery. Sin, in Hebrew imagination, is not just moral failure but broken relationship leading to unjust systems – creating oppression and exile. The Lamb is not just concerned with our private naughtiness, but also addressing systems like Pharaoh’s Egypt – in his contemporary life, that meant taking on the Roman Empire.
The Challenge Then:
The challenge was to believe that the Messiah would invite discipleship through hospitality and relationship, not coercion – to change the game not win the game. Jesus method of change was not passivity, escape, collaboration, or violence. Rather he brought an active non-violent engagement.
The Challenge Now:
We are tempted to reduce faith to ideas or tribal loyalties. Jesus’ way is relational apprenticeship: “Come and see.” Sin is still brokenness — of trust, belonging, and community. Jesus restores by gathering us into mutual life.
Implications for Leaders & Communities:
- Leaders can model invitation rather than control.
- Communities can embody discipleship as relationship and shared life, not only belief or performance.
What I Am Learning:
Discipleship begins with curiosity, invitation, and presence.
The Question I’m Sitting With:
How do I make space for others to “come and see” the life of Jesus in me and my community?
