January 12
The Baptism of the Lord
“O bless the Lord, my soul.”
Readings
Reflection
We all know what Baptism is all about–the beginning of our journey of faith. We are washed of our sins and, as such, we can continue to follow the Lord in innocence and peace. As the first of the Sacraments of Initiation, Baptism is the open door through which we enter into the Holy Catholic Church and the sacramental life that will ultimately guide us to heaven. But this weekend, Baptism takes on a new dimension as we see Jesus getting baptized by–who else–John the Baptist. But wait! What is Jesus doing getting Baptized? How can someone who has no sin go through the Baptism of repentance that John offers? The thing is, for Jesus, Baptism is not about repentance but fulfilling the scriptures and the voices of the prophets. If Jesus never went through John’s baptism, the Holy Spirit would never have descended like a dove, the voice from Heaven would never have been heard saying, ”You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” These manifestations of God’s presence in Heaven are not just important moments in the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, but they are signs to all people of the divinity and holiness of Jesus.
In our first reading from Isaiah, we hear the wonderfully comforting words, “Here comes with power the Lord GOD, who rules by a strong arm.” Jesus comes like a shepherd, feeding his flock and leading them with care. We hear in Psalm 104 how the Lord will bless his people. In Paul’s letter to Titus, he tells him–and us–that God’s grace will train us to reject godless ways and worldly desires, so that we can live temperately, justly and devoutly in our world. What more can we ask for?
Jesus’ Baptism marks a beginning for his ministry, and for our lives of holiness and peace. Through our own baptism, we have access to the spiritual strength and grace of God. As we continue the beginning of a new year of our lives, let us turn toward that grace and seek to live out the justice and mercy that are brought to us through the sacrificial love of Jesus.
Peace,
Deacon Dare
Would you like to receive these reflections in your inbox? Subscribe to The Sunday Read newsletter.