Who was Jesus of Nazareth?

     Who exactly was Jesus of Nazareth? Today’s Mass readings for Sunday, September, 15th, speak to the profound theme of Jesus’ identity and the implications of that identity for our lives as followers of Christ. Jesus poses a profound question about Himself when he asks, “Whom do people say that I am?” This question serves as a pivotal moment in understanding not only who Jesus is but also what it means to live out our faith in response to that identity.

    In Isaiah 50:5-9, the servant of the Lord speaks of his mission and his unwavering commitment to God’s call, despite facing opposition and suffering. The passage begins with the servant stating, “The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward.” This declaration highlights the servant's obedience and readiness to fulfill God’s purpose, even in the face of adversity. The servant embodies the identity of one who is chosen and sustained by God, demonstrating that true strength lies in fidelity to God’s will. This reading invites us to reflect on our own response to God’s call in our lives. Are we listening for His voice and ready to act, even when the path is difficult?

    James 2:14-18 challenges us to consider the relationship between faith and works. James asks, “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith, but do not have works?” This question underscores the necessity of living out our faith through concrete actions. The identity of a believer is not merely a matter of professing faith but is demonstrated through acts of love and service. This passage compels us to reflect on how we respond to the needs of others. If we claim to follow Christ, who identified Himself with the marginalized and the suffering, our faith must manifest in tangible ways that reflect His love.
 

    In Mark 8:27-35, Jesus directly asks His disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” The responses vary, revealing the diverse opinions about Jesus’ identity—some see Him as John the Baptist, others as Elijah, or one of the prophets. However, when Jesus asks, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter responds, “You are the Messiah.” This declaration is significant; it acknowledges Jesus’ true identity as the anointed one sent by God. Yet, immediately following this confession, Jesus begins to teach about His impending suffering and death, challenging the disciples’ understanding of what it means to be the Messiah. The call to discipleship is not merely about recognizing Jesus’ identity, but also about embracing the path of self-denial and taking up one’s cross.
Together, these readings invite us to reflect on the implications of Jesus’ identity for our lives. The question “Whom do people say that I am?” is not only directed at the disciples, but also resonates with us today. Our response to this question shapes our understanding of who Jesus is, and how we are called to live in light of that identity. Recognizing Jesus as the Messiah compels us to act in accordance with His teachings, to serve others, and to bear witness to His love in the world.

    Moreover, the readings challenge us to examine our own faith. Are we merely spectators who acknowledge Jesus’ identity, or are we active participants in His mission? Our faith must be alive and expressed through our actions, as James emphasizes. This means that our understanding of Jesus should lead us to serve those in need, advocate for justice, and embody the love of Christ in our daily interactions. The theme of “Whom do people say that I am?” invites us into a deeper relationship with Jesus, urging us to recognize His identity as the Messiah, and to respond faithfully. As we listen to the call of the servant in Isaiah, act on our faith as James instructs, and embrace our identity as disciples of Christ in the spirit of Mark’s Gospel, we are challenged to live out our faith authentically. May our lives reflect our understanding of who Jesus is, and may we be empowered to share His love and grace with those around us, becoming true witnesses of His transformative power in the world.