Christmas Weekday on January 3

• First Reading – 1 John 2:29-3:6: Believers in God’s righteousness are His children, unrecognized by the world. Our future form is unknown, but we’ll mirror His likeness, purifying ourselves in hope and refraining from sin.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 98: The world celebrates God’s marvelous deeds and victory. Every land has seen His salvation, inspiring joyful songs, music, and praises in the presence of the Lord.
• Gospel – John 1:29-34: As Jesus approached, John the Baptist proclaimed Him the Lamb of God, destined to remove the world’s sins. John explained his initial unawareness of Jesus’ identity, revealing that his own baptism ministry aimed to unveil Jesus to Israel. He recounted witnessing the Spirit descend upon Jesus, confirming his realization that Jesus is the Son of God, as foretold to him.

John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’”

John 1:29

On a Christmas Weekday on January 3, the readings from 1 John and the Gospel of John focus on recognizing Jesus, understanding His role as the Lamb of God, and living as children of God. These themes invite us to look closely at Jesus’ purpose and our call to live as His followers.

• Recognizing Jesus as Savior: John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This reminds us of the importance of seeing Jesus’ true identity and mission as the one who saves humanity.
• Living as Children of God: In the first reading, believers are called children of God, emphasizing a relationship that comes with both blessings and responsibilities. This theme speaks to our own lives, encouraging us to act in ways that reflect our identity as God’s children.
• Jesus’ Role as the Lamb of God: John’s proclamation of Jesus as the Lamb of God highlights Jesus’ sacrificial love and His role in redemption. This image reminds us that Jesus came to offer Himself for us, which is central to understanding the love of God.
• The Call to Purity: The first reading calls believers to purity, emphasizing that those who hope in Jesus should live in holiness. This theme connects with our daily journey to follow God and seek His presence with clean hearts and honest intentions.
• Witness and Testimony: John the Baptist’s testimony about Jesus serves as a powerful example of bearing witness to the truth. His bold declaration encourages us to share our faith openly and confidently, just as he did.
• Seeing the Spirit’s Presence: John the Baptist describes the Spirit descending upon Jesus, confirming His identity. This theme highlights the importance of being aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in our own lives.
• Being Born of God: The first reading speaks of those born of God as people who seek to live without sin. This theme reminds us that being born of God means striving for a life of faithfulness and integrity.

These themes from a Christmas Weekday on January 3 invite reflection on how we see Jesus, our lives as God’s children, and our call to live according to His love and truth. Reflecting on these points helps deepen our appreciation for the gift of Jesus and our role in God’s family.

A Christmas Weekday on January 3 offers us a rich reflection on our identity as children of God, the powerful role of Jesus as the Lamb of God, and the importance of bearing witness to His light in our lives. These themes invite us to deepen our relationship with God and consider how His love shapes our lives. Each reading provides unique insights into living our faith fully, reminding us of God’s endless mercy and calling us to live as true reflections of His love. Through this journey, we are encouraged to embrace our role in His family with open hearts and renewed commitment.

Called as Children of God

On a Christmas Weekday on January 3, we reflect on our identity as children of God. The first reading reminds us that to live as God’s children, we are called to pursue righteousness and live according to His love. This title, “children of God,” is both a gift and a responsibility. It reminds us of our connection to God and our need to reflect His goodness to others. In our daily lives, living as God’s children means choosing love and kindness in even the simplest moments.

Being children of God changes our perspective on ourselves and others. We are all members of God’s family, united by His love and called to be people of compassion. We are encouraged to support one another in our faith, showing patience, understanding, and generosity. In a world that often feels divided, we have the chance to bring God’s peace into each situation we face.

This title also calls us to grow in humility. As children of God, we can lean on His strength and guidance, trusting that He will lead us through every trial. This reading invites us to reflect on how we live as members of His family, striving to reflect His light and love wherever we go.

Jesus, the Lamb of God

A Christmas Weekday on January 3 brings us to John the Baptist’s testimony that Jesus is the “Lamb of God.” This powerful title shows us the role Jesus has in the world and in our lives. John recognizes Jesus as the one sent by God to bear the world’s sin, bringing freedom and salvation to humanity. For us, this title invites us to see Jesus as the answer to the struggles we face with sin and separation from God.

The “Lamb of God” shows Jesus’ willingness to offer Himself for others. He is both our guide and our protector, walking with us as we navigate life’s challenges. His presence shows us that no matter how much we may struggle, God’s love and mercy remain constant. Just as the lamb was part of sacrifices in the Old Testament, Jesus becomes the perfect offering, drawing us back to a life of holiness and reconciliation.

This title encourages us to respond with gratitude and commitment. To recognize Jesus as the Lamb of God is to trust in His guidance, to welcome His mercy, and to allow His love to shape our choices. A Christmas Weekday on January 3 calls us to see Jesus for who He is, the one who heals and restores, inviting us to a deeper, more faithful life with God.

Witnesses to God’s Light

A theme shared by both readings on a Christmas Weekday on January 3 is the call to be witnesses to God’s light. In the Gospel, John the Baptist serves as a clear example of someone whose life pointed to Jesus. He understood his role as a forerunner, humbly testifying to Jesus’ greatness. This same call extends to us, as we too are asked to reveal God’s light through our words and actions.

Living as witnesses means that we do not seek recognition for ourselves, but instead, we point to God’s love and truth. In each choice, we have a chance to show kindness, patience, and understanding, reflecting the light of Christ to those around us. Our witness may sometimes be quiet, but it speaks volumes about the peace and hope God brings to our lives.

This call to witness also reminds us that we are part of a larger mission. Just as John had a purpose in preparing the way for Jesus, we too are part of God’s plan. By staying connected to our faith, we grow in our ability to be His hands and voice, showing others the beauty of God’s love and mercy. On this Christmas Weekday on January 3, we are invited to carry forward John’s spirit of humble testimony, making God’s presence felt in the world through our own lives.

---

As we reflect on these themes for a Christmas Weekday on January 3, we are reminded of the strength and guidance that God provides through Jesus. Living as His children, following Jesus as the Lamb of God, and sharing His light with others are at the heart of our Christian calling. May these reflections deepen our understanding of God’s love and help us respond to His call with greater faith and gratitude.

Prayer

Loving Father, thank You for calling us Your children and for sending Jesus as the Lamb of God to show us Your love. Help us live in Your light, bearing witness to Your goodness. May our actions reflect Your love in all we do. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• What does it mean to you to be called a child of God?
• How does recognizing Jesus as the Lamb of God shape your understanding of His role in your life?
• In what ways can you bear witness to God’s light in your daily interactions?
• How can you listen more closely to God’s call and respond with faith and trust?

Word on Fire: Baptism Is a Door

Bishop Robert Barron, in his reflection for a Christmas weekday on January 3, emphasizes that Christianity is more than just being good or moral. He explains that through Baptism, described as “the door to the spiritual life,” Christians are grafted onto Christ and become part of His Mystical Body. This sacrament, done in the name of the Trinity, is not merely a ritual but an invitation into the inner life of God, embodying the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Thus, Baptism is fundamentally about grace and our incorporation into God’s divine life, transcending mere ethical living.

What are the Mass readings for a Christmas Weekday on January 3?

The Mass readings for a weekday on January 3 are:
First Reading – 1 John 2:29-3:6: Children of God
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 98: Universal Celebration of Salvation
Gospel – John 1:29-34: John Identifies the Messiah

What does it mean when Jesus is called the Lamb of God?

On a Christmas Weekday on January 3, the Gospel refers to Jesus as the Lamb of God, pointing to His role in offering Himself for humanity’s sins. In Jewish tradition, a lamb was used for sacrifice. Jesus is called the Lamb of God because He came to save people by taking on sin and offering new life.

Why does John the Baptist testify about Jesus?

John the Baptist’s role was to prepare the way for Jesus and let people know who Jesus truly is. His testimony confirms Jesus as the one who brings salvation. Through John’s witness, people are encouraged to recognize and follow Jesus.

What does being a child of God mean in this context?

In the first reading on a Christmas Weekday on January 3, being called a child of God emphasizes a close, caring relationship with God. This means that we are loved by God and called to live in a way that reflects that love. It also means we belong to God and are part of His family.

How can we live like children of God?

To live as children of God, we try to follow God’s teachings, live with kindness, and seek holiness. This includes praying, helping others, and making choices that honor our relationship with God. Living as God’s children is about striving to grow closer to Him.

What does John the Baptist mean when he says he saw the Spirit descend?

John is saying that he saw God’s Spirit come upon Jesus, which was a sign that Jesus is the Messiah. This moment confirms that Jesus is sent by God and has a special purpose. The Spirit’s presence on Jesus is a message for us about who Jesus is and why we can trust Him.

Why is purity mentioned in the readings?

On a Christmas Weekday on January 3, the call to purity means keeping our hearts and actions clean and focused on God. Being pure helps us stay close to God and avoid things that lead us away from Him. Purity allows us to live in a way that honors our connection with God.

What does it mean to be born of God?

To be born of God means to live with a faith-centered life, aiming to do what is right and avoid sin. It reflects a new beginning through faith and God’s grace. Being born of God calls us to live differently, as people who know and follow God’s ways.

How can we apply John the Baptist’s example in our lives?

John the Baptist shows us how to be strong in our faith and share it with others. We can apply his example by speaking openly about what we believe and supporting others in their faith. Like John, we can help others see Jesus and know His love.

Why is the relationship between Jesus and the Father so important?

The close relationship between Jesus and the Father shows us that Jesus is fully aligned with God’s will. Jesus’ love and mission are connected to the Father’s love for humanity. Understanding this relationship helps us see that Jesus came from God to bring us closer to Him.

How can we listen to what God is calling us to do?

To listen to God, we can take time in quiet prayer, read scripture, and pay attention to ways we feel drawn to help others. A Christmas Weekday on January 3 invites us to reflect on what God might be asking us to do in our lives. God’s call is often about small, daily choices that bring us closer to Him.