Although Cycle A of the readings is taken from St Matthew’s Gospel, we begin the year with a programmatic section from St John’s Gospel.  John the Baptist bears witness that Jesus is the Chosen One of God.  His own role is now eclipsed by the true Light of the World.  In describing Jesus as the Lamb of God John refers to the prophecy of Isaiah that speaks of the Suffering Servant as one who will be led like a lamb to slaughter – a lamb of sacrifice.  However, the Book of the Apocalypse speaks also of the Lamb standing in the presence of God – death overcome by victory.  We cannot speak of the Crucifixion without also speaking of the Resurrection.  We cannot understand the ministry of Jesus as simply a series of good works or teachings.  These take their real significance from the Passion and Resurrection towards which they lead.