What Christ read out at the synagogue in his hometown in today”s gospel about the Messiah and his mission, he attributed to himself. He identifies himself with the Old Testament prophecy of Isaiah about the Messiah and his mission. A mission dependent on God solely . Remember, Jesus says, ‘my food is to the will of my Father…”If God has given us a mission why are we worried about its realization.

I know that we are not alone in experiencing the whirlwind of confusing and competing draws on our time and attention at this time of the year. What I find in my heart when I slow down and reflect is a question: “Am I doing this right? Am I getting to everything and everyone as Christ as shown me?”The fulfillment of every mission lies in the hands of the Almighty God and all we need to do is to disposed ourselves completely to his will.

As citizens, where does the message of Jesus’ Epiphany and mission lead us this year? Will the public policies we choose to support serve to break down the barriers to inclusion in our own country and around the world? Will the suffering of those discriminated against because they are “Other” disturb us to action? With Christ’s mission mandate laid on our shoulders through our baptism, can we be able to hear the calls from those on the margins of this world especially the poor and oppressed ?

In today’s first reading, we are told, whoever loves God must also love his brother. Let the salvation of God pass through you to others today. Let his salvation, transform us, purify us and make our sacrifices acceptable and worthy. May this new year find us following the Light of Christ, His Mission in all that we do and whatever situations we find yourself in.Amen.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Osho, OSJ.