Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, Year A 2026

On January 11, 2026, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which marks the close of the Christmas season and the beginning of Ordinary Time in Year A. The readings invite us to reflect deeply on Jesus' humility, His identity as the beloved Son, and the gift of our own baptism.

 The Readings

- First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 (The Servant Song – God’s chosen servant brings justice gently)

- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10 (The voice of the Lord thunders over the waters)

- Second Reading: Acts 10:34-38 (Peter proclaims how God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit)

- Gospel: Matthew 3:13-17 (Jesus is baptized by John; the heavens open, the Spirit descends, and the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”)

 Reflection

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we gather on this beautiful Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we stand at the threshold between the joy of Christmas and the mission of Ordinary Time. The Christmas season that began with the humble birth of our Savior in Bethlehem now culminates in this profound moment at the Jordan River. Here, Jesus, the sinless Son of God, steps into the waters of baptism—not because He needs cleansing, but because He chooses to identify fully with us, sinners in need of redemption.

In the First Reading from Isaiah, we hear the tender description of God’s Servant: “He will not cry out, nor raise his voice... A bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench.” This is the gentle Messiah who comes not to condemn but to heal, to open the eyes of the blind, and to bring light to those in darkness. Jesus embodies this Servant perfectly in His baptism, lowering Himself in solidarity with humanity while revealing His divine mission.

The Gospel scene in Matthew is breathtaking. John hesitates, saying, “I need to be baptized by you,” yet Jesus insists: “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” In this act of obedience and humility, Jesus sanctifies the waters of baptism for all time. The heavens tear open, the Holy Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father’s voice booms: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

These words are not just for Jesus—they echo over every baptismal font. Through our own baptism, we are plunged into Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4). We become adopted sons and daughters of the Father, anointed with the same Holy Spirit, and called “beloved.” The voice that affirmed Jesus at the Jordan affirms us too: You are my beloved child. In you, I am well pleased—not because of our perfection, but because of His grace poured out upon us.

Yet this identity carries responsibility. As St. Peter declares in the second reading, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power... He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil.” Our baptism is not a private event; it launches us into mission. Like Jesus, we are sent to bring God’s healing, justice, and light into a world still marked by sin and suffering. We are called to be gentle with the bruised reeds around us—the broken, the doubting, the marginalized—and to fan the smoldering wicks of hope in others.

On the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Church invites us to ponder one of the most profound mysteries of Christ's life: why the sinless Son of God chose to be baptized by John in the Jordan River.

John's baptism was "a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (Mk 1:4). John himself recognized the absurdity of the situation, protesting, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” (Mt 3:14). Yet Jesus insists: “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Mt 3:15). In this humble act, Jesus reveals the heart of His mission.

 Why Jesus Got Baptized

Jesus had no personal sin to repent of—He is the spotless Lamb of God. His baptism was not for His own cleansing but for ours. By stepping into the Jordan among sinners, Jesus fully identifies with humanity in its brokenness and need for redemption. He aligns Himself with the "suffering Servant" foretold by Isaiah (Is 42:1-4), taking upon His shoulders the guilt of the world. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches, Jesus' baptism is “the acceptance and inauguration of his mission as God’s suffering Servant. He allows himself to be numbered among sinners; he is already ‘the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world’” (CCC 536).

This moment foreshadows the cross: just as Jesus descends into the waters, He will descend into death itself, bearing our sins. His rising from the water prefigures His Resurrection. In obedience to the Father, Jesus submits to this act of solidarity, manifesting His total self-emptying (kenosis) for love of us.

 How Jesus Prepared the Waters for Our Baptism

By entering the Jordan, Jesus sanctifies the waters for all time. He does not receive purification from the water; rather, He purifies the water by His divine presence. As St. Ambrose beautifully expressed it: “Our Lord was baptized because He wished, not to be cleansed, but to cleanse the waters.” The heavens open, the Holy Spirit descends like a dove, and the Father’s voice proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Mt 3:17). In that instant, the waters are consecrated, becoming the instrument of grace.

The Catechism explains that at Jesus' baptism, “the heavens were opened” — the heavens closed by Adam’s sin — “and the waters were sanctified by the descent of Jesus and the Spirit, a prelude to the new creation” (CCC 536). From that moment, the waters of baptism are no longer mere symbols of repentance; they become the efficacious sign of the new birth in the Holy Spirit, uniting us to Christ’s death and resurrection (Rom 6:3-4).

 The Importance of Baptism

Baptism is the foundation of the Christian life and the door to the sacraments (CCC 1213). Through it, we are freed from original sin and all personal sins, reborn as adopted children of God, incorporated into the Body of Christ (the Church), and made sharers in divine life. It confers sanctifying grace, the theological virtues (faith, hope, charity), and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. An indelible spiritual seal is imprinted on the soul, marking us forever as belonging to Christ (CCC 1263, 1272).

The Lord Himself declares baptism necessary for salvation (Jn 3:5; Mk 16:16). It is not optional but essential: we are plunged into Christ’s Paschal Mystery, dying to sin and rising to new life. As the voice from heaven affirmed Jesus as the beloved Son, so it echoes over every baptized person: You are God’s beloved child. This identity empowers us to live as His witnesses, bringing His light, mercy, and justice into the world.

On this feast, let us renew our baptismal promises, grateful that the sinless One entered the waters for us, sanctifying them so that we might be cleansed, reborn, and sent forth in the power of the Spirit.

As Ordinary Time begins tomorrow, may we carry the memory of this feast into our daily lives. Let the Father’s voice resound in your heart: You are beloved. Live as one who belongs to Christ, who has been washed clean, anointed, and sent. Let your life proclaim the same Good News that Jesus began at the Jordan.

May the Holy Spirit, who descended upon Christ, descend anew upon us, empowering us to live as beloved children of God in all we say and do. May the grace of our baptism, rooted in Christ’s own, transform us daily into His image and likeness. Amen.

The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus

The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus: A Reflection on Year C Readings

The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus marks the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. Celebrated on January 12, 2025, in Year C of the liturgical calendar, this feast invites us to reflect on the significance of Jesus' baptism and its implications for our own spiritual journey.

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7

The first reading from Isaiah presents the image of God's chosen servant, who brings forth justice and serves as a light to the nations. This servant, upon whom God has placed His spirit, is a figure of humility and compassion, bringing hope and liberation to those in darkness.

"Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one with whom I am pleased, upon whom I have put my spirit; he shall bring forth justice to the nations" (Isaiah 42:1).

This passage foreshadows the mission of Jesus, who embodies these qualities and fulfills this prophecy through His life and ministry.

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10

The responsorial psalm calls us to glorify the Lord for His might and majesty. It emphasizes the power of God's voice, which echoes over the waters and brings peace to His people.

"The Lord will bless his people with peace" (Psalm 29:11b).

This psalm resonates with the theme of baptism, where water symbolizes purification and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Second Reading: Acts 10:34-38

In the second reading, Peter speaks about God's impartiality and the anointing of Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power. He highlights Jesus' mission of doing good and healing those oppressed by the devil.

"God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him" (Acts 10:34-35).

This passage underscores the universality of Jesus' message and the inclusivity of God's love.

Gospel: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

The Gospel reading from Luke recounts the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. As Jesus is baptized, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends upon Him in the form of a dove. A voice from heaven declares:

"You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased" (Luke 3:22).

This moment marks the divine affirmation of Jesus' identity and mission, setting the stage for His public ministry.

Reflection: The Significance of Jesus' Baptism

The baptism of Jesus is a profound event that holds deep theological and spiritual significance. It is a moment of revelation, where Jesus is publicly identified as the Son of God and anointed with the Holy Spirit. This event also serves as a model for our own baptism, where we are cleansed of sin and initiated into the Christian community.

The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus invites us to reflect on our own baptismal promises and the call to live out our faith with integrity and compassion. Just as Jesus' baptism marked the beginning of His mission, our baptism calls us to a life of discipleship and service.

Some may wonder why did Jesus even get baptized. If He is God, the second person of the Holy Trinity and is incapable of sin, why would He need to be baptized?  Catholic teaching tells us that Baptism removes Original Sin.  Jesus and Mary did not have Original sin, so again, why would Jesus even need baptism?  

The baptism of Jesus is a significant event in Christian theology, and it holds deep meaning within the Catholic tradition. Here are some key reasons why Jesus was baptized:

1. Fulfillment of Righteousness

Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist was an act of obedience to God's will. In Matthew 3:15, Jesus says, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." By being baptized, Jesus demonstrated His commitment to fulfilling God's plan and set an example for His followers.

2. Identification with Humanity

Although Jesus was sinless, His baptism symbolized His identification with humanity. By undergoing baptism, Jesus showed solidarity with sinners and took on the role of the suffering servant, as prophesied in Isaiah 53. This act foreshadowed His ultimate sacrifice on the cross for the redemption of humanity.

3. Revelation of the Holy Trinity

The baptism of Jesus is one of the few events in the New Testament where all three Persons of the Holy Trinity are present. As Jesus is baptized, the Holy Spirit descends upon Him in the form of a dove, and a voice from heaven declares, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). This moment reveals the unity and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

4. Inauguration of Jesus' Public Ministry

Jesus' baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry. It was a moment of divine commissioning, where He was anointed by the Holy Spirit and publicly affirmed as the Messiah. This event set the stage for His teachings, miracles, and ultimately, His passion, death, and resurrection.

5. Institution of the Sacrament of Baptism

By being baptized, Jesus sanctified the waters of baptism and instituted the sacrament for His followers. In the Catholic Church, baptism is the first of the seven sacraments and is essential for salvation. It cleanses individuals from original sin, initiates them into the Christian community, and imparts the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

The baptism of Jesus is a profound event that holds multiple layers of meaning within the Catholic tradition. It signifies Jesus' obedience to God's will, His identification with humanity, the revelation of the Holy Trinity, the inauguration of His public ministry, and the institution of the sacrament of baptism. Through His baptism, Jesus set an example for all believers and provided a path for spiritual renewal and salvation.

As we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus on January 12, 2025, let us remember the significance of this event and its implications for our own spiritual journey. May we be inspired by Jesus' example and strive to live out our baptismal promises with faith, hope, and love.

 

Baptism of the Lord - Jesus Leads by Example

Today is the Baptism of the Lord.  The festive Christmas season is officially over and we begin to enter into the ministry of Christ as He preached and worked miracles.  There are two options for the first reading from Isaiah. The first option reading from Isaiah tells us that God's servant or His chosen one is someone He is pleased with.  This person will have God's spirit and will bring forth justice to the nations.  He will do so in peace and quiet, not "crying out, not shouting." This is of course referring to Jesus who is the Messiah. 

Despite Jesus being a great speaker, He remained silent on some occasions (Matthew 26:63, Matthew 27:12-14).  This "silence" would be heard loud and clear throughout time as the faith spread throughout the world.  Silence is key in our spiritual lives.  It is in silence that we hear God speak to us. This is why I often stress that people be silent in the church. There should not be any talking in the church unless there is an emergency or an important message must be vocalized.  The church should be quiet as we sit or kneel before the Lord in the tabernacle.  The second option tells us that God is the one who gives us to drink and to eat.  He is the one that comforts us and takes on our burden. This again is referring to Christ who provides for us and helps us with our burdens (Matthew 11:28).  As this reading tells us, we must seek Him while He may be found.  Our time to seek salvation in Christ is limited. He gives us ample time to reform ourselves into the image of God.

The responsorial Psalm responds to the first reading with the words that God will bless His people. Peace is something we all look for in the world and in life. Unfortunately, it is not easy to come by. Today we see war, genocide, terrorism, etc.  It seems to be rampant; no end in sight. However, God is the one who gives us peace (Psalm 29:11, 1 Corinthians 14:33).  This is the peace we truly need now dring this alleged covid-19 coronavirus which has taken the lives of many around the world.  Despite several vaccines in existence, the virus continues to spread and has even mutated to become more contagious and virile. We truly need some peace during these trying times. Let me not get into the situation with the election in the United States and the horrendous domestic terrorism against the Us Capitol building. God will give us peace. However, we must ask for it. God respects our free will.

As with the first reading, we also have two options with the second.  The first option is from Acts and shows how Peter, the first Pope took leadership and spoke to the gathered in the house of Cornelius. Peter reminds us that God is not prejudiced.  He shows no partiality, as the text states.  God opens Himself to all people because we are all His children. This message must be told today more than ever where there are so many claims of discrimination, prejudice, sexism, and racism.  Everything is being seen in the kaleidoscope of race and alleged privilege.  This is not what God is about. We are all His children and that makes us brothers and sisters regardless of how we look. The second option tells us that believing in Christ is important.  In Christ, we see the Father (John 14:9-11). Christ is the link between humanity and God; between the creature and the Creator.

Finally, in the Gospel, we read about John the Baptist telling everyone gathered that one is coming after him who is mightier and who he is unworthy to loosen his straps on his sandals. He was of course referring to Jesus who happened to approach and seek Baptism. Why would Christ ask to be Baptized?  He has no sin yet sought it. There are many answers to this but the one that stands out to me the most is that He wanted to be part of us. By getting Baptized, Jesus gave us a "demo" of how to start the spiritual life. His Baptism opened up the doors of grace to the primitive Sacrament John used with simple water.  When Jesus entered the river Jordan, His presence sanctified the waters.  As with the Wedding at Cana, the water in the jars was just water until Jesus got involved. John's Baptism was just a simple bath until Jesus came along and transformed it into an initiation rite that removes Original Sin and restores our relationship with God which was harmed at the fall of man. In this year of St. Joseph, we should reflect on our own baptism. We should think about what took place and the effects of this important Sacrament on our lives.  

Readings:  The Baptism of the Lord | USCCB

We need your help.  Please become a patron at Patreon www.patreon.com/sacerdotus or donated to our paypal or gofundme.com/sacerdotus.  We truly need your help to pay the bills and expand the best we can.  Please be generous and support our work.  You are part of this work too!

Baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ

A Reflection on the Baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ

The baptism of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in the history of salvation. It marks the beginning of his public ministry and reveals his identity as the Son of God and the Messiah. It also shows us the mystery of the Holy Trinity and the dignity of our own baptism.

The baptism of Jesus is recorded in all four Gospels, but with some variations. Matthew, Mark and Luke agree that Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John the Baptist, who was preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John recognized Jesus as the one who was to come after him, and hesitated to baptize him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" (Matthew 3:14). Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness" (Matthew 3:15). Then John consented and baptized Jesus.

As soon as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:16-17). Mark and Luke have similar accounts, except that they record the voice from heaven as addressing Jesus directly: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased" (Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22).

John's Gospel does not describe the baptism itself, but rather John's testimony about it. He says that he saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on Jesus. And he declares, "I have seen and I testify that this is God's Chosen One" (John 1:34).

The baptism of Jesus reveals several truths about him and his mission. First, it shows that he is the Son of God, the beloved of the Father, who has sent him into the world. The voice from heaven confirms what the angel Gabriel had announced to Mary at the annunciation: "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High" (Luke 1:32). The baptism also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations" (Isaiah 42:1).

Second, it shows that he is the Messiah, the anointed one, who has come to inaugurate the kingdom of God. The Spirit descending on him is a sign of his messianic consecration and empowerment. As Peter later preached, "God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and ... he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him" (Acts 10:38). The baptism also fulfills the prophecy of Psalm 2: "You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession" (Psalm 2:7-8).

Third, it shows that he is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. By submitting to John's baptism, Jesus identifies himself with sinners and expresses his solidarity with them. He also anticipates his own death and resurrection, which will be the ultimate act of atonement for our sins. As Paul later wrote, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21). The baptism also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; ... and by his wounds we are healed" (Isaiah 53:5).

The baptism of Jesus not only reveals his identity and mission, but also invites us to share in them through our own baptism. In baptism, we are united with Christ in his death and resurrection, and we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, who makes us children of God and heirs of his kingdom. We are also called to follow Christ in his obedience to the Father's will, in his service to others, and in his witness to the world.

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord celebrates this great mystery of our faith. It reminds us of who Jesus is and what he has done for us. It also reminds us of who we are and what we are called to do as his disciples. Let us renew our baptismal vows today and ask for God's grace to live them out faithfully.

Baptism of the Lord

 

A Reflection on the Baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ

The baptism of Jesus Christ is one of the most significant events in the history of salvation. It marks the beginning of his public ministry and reveals his identity as the Son of God and the Messiah. It also shows us the mystery of the Holy Trinity and the dignity of our own baptism.

The baptism of Jesus is recorded in all four Gospels, but with some variations. Matthew, Mark and Luke agree that Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan River to be baptized by John the Baptist, who was preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. John recognized Jesus as the one who was to come after him, and hesitated to baptize him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" (Matthew 3:14). Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness" (Matthew 3:15). Then John consented and baptized Jesus.

As soon as Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:16-17). Mark and Luke have similar accounts, except that they record the voice from heaven as addressing Jesus directly: "You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased" (Mark 1:11; Luke 3:22).

John's Gospel does not describe the baptism itself, but rather John's testimony about it. He says that he saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on Jesus. And he declares, "I have seen and I testify that this is God's Chosen One" (John 1:34).

The baptism of Jesus reveals several truths about him and his mission. First, it shows that he is the Son of God, the beloved of the Father, who has sent him into the world. The voice from heaven confirms what the angel Gabriel had announced to Mary at the annunciation: "He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High" (Luke 1:32). The baptism also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations" (Isaiah 42:1).

Second, it shows that he is the Messiah, the anointed one, who has come to inaugurate the kingdom of God. The Spirit descending on him is a sign of his messianic consecration and empowerment. As Peter later preached, "God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and ... he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him" (Acts 10:38). The baptism also fulfills the prophecy of Psalm 2: "You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession" (Psalm 2:7-8).

Third, it shows that he is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. By submitting to John's baptism, Jesus identifies himself with sinners and expresses his solidarity with them. He also anticipates his own death and resurrection, which will be the ultimate act of atonement for our sins. As Paul later wrote, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21). The baptism also fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: "He was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; ... and by his wounds we are healed" (Isaiah 53:5).

The baptism of Jesus not only reveals his identity and mission, but also invites us to share in them through our own baptism. In baptism, we are united with Christ in his death and resurrection, and we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, who makes us children of God and heirs of his kingdom. We are also called to follow Christ in his obedience to the Father's will, in his service to others, and in his witness to the world.

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord celebrates this great mystery of our faith. It reminds us of who Jesus is and what he has done for us. It also reminds us of who we are and what we are called to do as his disciples. Let us renew our baptismal vows today and ask for God's grace to live them out faithfully.

Baptism of the Lord - Jesus Sets An Example

Today is the Baptism of the Lord. There are two options for the first reading from Isaiah. The first option reading from Isaiah tells us that God's servant or His chosense one is someone He is pleased with.  This person will have God's spirit and will bring forth justice to the nations.  He will do so in peace and quiet, not "crying out, not shouting." This is of course referring to Jesus who is the Messiah. 

Despite Jesus being a great speaker, He remained silent on some occasions (Matthew 26:63, Matthew 27:12-14).  This "silence" would be heard loud and clear throughout time as the faith spread throughout the word.  Silence is key in our spiritual lives.  It is in silence that we hear God speak to us. The second option tells us that God is the one who gives us to drink and to eat.  He is the one that comforts us and takes on our burden. This again is referring to Christ who provides for us and helps us with our burdens (Matthew 11:28).  As this reading tells us, we must seek Him while He may be found.  Our time to seek salvation in Christ is limited. He gives us ample time to reform ourselves into the image of God.

The responsorial Psalm responds to the first reading with the words that God will bless His people.  Peace is something we all look for in the world and in life. Unfortunately, it is not easy to come by. Today we see war, genocide, terrorism etc.  It seems to be rampant; no end in sight. However, God is the one who gives us peace (Psalm 29:11, 1 Corinthians 14:33).  However, we must ask for it. God respects our free will.

As with the first reading, we also have two options with the second.  The first option is from Acts and shows how Peter, the first Pope took leadership and spoke to the gathered in the house of Cornelius. Peter reminds us that God is not prejudice.  He shows no partiality, as the text states.  God opens Himself to all people because we are all His children. The second option tells us that believing in Christ is important.  In Christ we see the Father (John 14:9-11). Christ is the link between humanity and God; between the creature and the Creator.

Finally in the Gospel we read about John the Baptist telling everyone gathered that one is coming after him who is mightier and who he is unworthy to loosen his straps on his sandals. He was of course referring to Jesus who happened to approach and seek Baptism. Why would Christ ask to be Baptized?  He has no sin yet sought it. There are many answers to this but the one that stands out to me the most is that He wanted to be part of us. By getting Baptized, Jesus gave us a "demo" of how to start the spiritual life. His Baptism opened up the doors of grace to the primitive Sacrament John used with simple water. As with the Wedding at Cana, the water in the jars was just water until Jesus got involved. John's Baptism was just a simple bath until Jesus came along and transformed it into an initiation rite that removes Original Sin and restores our relationship with God which was harmed at the fall of man.  In this year of Mercy, we should reflect on our own baptism. We should think about what took place and the effects of this important Sacrament on our lives.  

Readings:  http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/011016.cfm

Baptism of the Lord Reflection

Today is the Baptism of the Lord. There are two options for the first reading from Isaiah. The first option reading from Isaiah tells us that God's servant or His chosense one is someone He is pleased with.  This person will have God's spirit and will bring forth justice to the nations.  He will do so in peace and quiet, not "crying out, not shouting." This is of course referring to Jesus who is the Messiah.

Despite Jesus being a great speaker, He remained silent on some occasions (Matthew 26:63, Matthew 27:12-14).  This "silence" would be heard loud and clear throughout time as the faith spread throughout the word.  Silence is key in our spiritual lives.  It is in silence that we hear God speak to us. The second option tells us that God is the one who gives us to drink and to eat.  He is the one that comforts us and takes on our burden. This again is referring to Christ who provides for us and helps us with our burdens (Matthew 11:28).  As this reading tells us, we must seek Him while He may be found.  Our time to seek salvation in Christ is limited. He gives us ample time to reform ourselves into the image of God.

The responsorial Psalm responds to the first reading with the words that God will bless His people.  Peace is something we all look for in the world and in life. Unfortunately, it is not easy to come by. Today we see war, genocide, terrorism etc.  It seems to be rampant; no end in sight. However, God is the one who gives us peace.  However, we must ask for it. God respects our free will.

 
As with the first reading, we also have two options with the second.  The first option is from Acts and shows how Peter, the first Pope took leadership and spoke to the gathered in the house of Cornelius. Peter reminds us that God is not prejudice.  He shows no partiality, as the text states.  God opens Himself to all people because we are all His children. The second option tells us that believing in Christ is important.  In Christ we see the Father (John 14:9-11). Christ is the link between humanity and God; between the creature and the Creator.

Finally in the Gospel we read about John the Baptist telling everyone gathered that one is coming after him who is mightier and who he is unworthy to loosen his straps on his sandals. He was of course referring to Jesus who happened to approach and seek Baptism. Why would Christ ask to be Baptized?  He has no sin yet sought it. There are many answers to this but the one that stands out to me the most is that He wanted to be part of us. By getting Baptized, Jesus gave us a "demo" of how to start the spiritual life. His Baptism opened up the doors of grace to the primitive Sacrament John used with simple water. As with the Wedding at Cana, the water in the jars was just water until Jesus got involved. John's Baptism was just a simple bath until Jesus came along and transformed it into an initiation rite that removes Original Sin and restores our relationship with God which was harmed at the fall of man.




Readings: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/011115.cfm

The Baptism of the Lord

Today is the Baptism of the Lord.  Jesus after spending 40 days and nights in the desert and tempted by Satan himself, went to His cousin John the Baptist in order to be baptized.  John the Baptist took people to the Jordan river where he baptized them.  Jesus approached John and asked to be baptized.  John replied that Jesus needed to baptize him since Jesus is God and the Messiah.  Jesus insisted because He had to fulfill this and so John took Him into the river and baptized Him.  As Jesus rose from the water the skies opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus as a dove and a voice said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased."

Here we see the Blessed Trinity come during Baptism.   Baptism is an important Sacrament.  It removes Original Sin and leaves an indelible mark on our souls showing we belong to God - Father, Son, Holy Spirit.  Just like we are all born of water in the womb; our souls are born in water with the words, "I Baptize you in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit."

Jesus in getting baptized shows that He is one of us.  He is human, but without sin.  He is human, but also God.  He came to lead us by example.

Let us meditate on this great Sacrament and encourage those we know who are not baptized or have children who are not baptized to go and receive this Sacrament.