Becoming a reflection of Christ

Scripture for Mass

Acts 6:1-7

Psalm 33(32): 1-2. 4-5. 18-19. Response: 22

1 Peter 2:4-9

John 14:1-12

Resemblances among members of the same family, even across a few generations, are common. Whether those resemblances are physical traits or mannerisms, they serve to remind us that we are closely interconnected.

While physical resemblances can be attributed to ‘accidents of nature’ due to biological relationships, other kinds of resemblances are frequently nurtured intentionally within families. For example, many parents strive to pass on their values to their children – the importance of respecting others, of attending to one’s duties, and of being trustworthy – in the hope that they will come to cherish those same values. Such formation of character happens through everyday relating and interacting within one’s family. A successful outcome might be recognised by an outside observer commenting that ‘The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!’

When Jesus says, ‘Whoever has seen me has seen the Father’ (Jn. 14:9), he is emphasising not only the very close resemblance between him and God the Father, but also the deeply intimate relationship which was the basis for their unity. Holding back nothing of himself, God the Father revealed his heart to Jesus. And Jesus dedicated his life to listening attentively to his Father and then, through word and deed, faithfully conveying his heart to the world.

The Christian community is entrusted with a similar vocation and mission: to listen attentively to Christ in order to become capable of conveying his heart through words and deeds to the world, and in the hope that others, recognising the close resemblance between Christ and us, will give glory to God.