Time to reflect on the Good News He reveals...
Reflections on the readings for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord (January 12, 2020): IS 42:1-4; PS 29:1-2,3-4,9-10; ACTS 10:31-38; MT 3:13-17
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
The Baptism of the Lord has long been revered by Christians for its significance in the history of salvation.
In the first centuries of the Church, it was associated with the Epiphany. Indeed, this occasion is another manifestation: that of the Holy Trinity. “After Jesus was baptized, He came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened for Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming upon Him. And a voice came from the heavens, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased’” (Matthew 3:16-17). Christ was only beginning His time of preaching and ministering to His people and wanted them to recognize His closeness with them and the unique bond He shared with the Father and the Holy Spirit.
Surely, many of John’s disciples and other people were present when Jesus was baptized. Even today, whether with babies, youngsters or adults, baptism is generally a public event. It is a turning away from sin and a joyful acceptance of life as true children of God. For us and for all Christians, this is a time to begin our journey as followers of our Lord and Savior. It is a time to begin nurturing the virtues of faith, hope, and love so that we, too, will one day hear the Father proclaim that we are His beloved children with whom He is pleased.
Suggested missionary action: Today is a marvelous day to renew our Baptismal vows and to meditate on what they mean to our life. We can also pray for those who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Baptism at Easter.