Baptism of the Lord

Called to the Victory of Justice
Greetings on this the Baptism of the Lord
Readings: Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10; Acts 10:34-38; Lk 3:15-16, 21-22
Notes: In the Baptism of Jesus Christ victory of sin and death are assured.

In our own baptism we die to sin and rise to new life.

First reading
Thus says the LORD:
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,
not crying out, not shouting,
not making his voice heard in the street.
a bruised reed he shall not break,
and a smoldering wick he shall not quench,
until he establishes justice on the earth;
the coastlands will wait for his teaching.

ALTERNATE FIRST READING:
Comfort, give comfort to my people, says your God.
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her
that her service is at an end,
her guilt is expiated;
indeed, she has received from the hand of the LORD
double for all her sins.

How many need to hear: Comforting tenderness from the Lord. From us, too!

Responsorial Psalm
The Lord will bless his people with peace.

They look to you to give them food in due time.
When you give it to them, they gather it;
when you open your hand, they are filled with good things.

Second reading
In truth, I see that God shows no partiality.
Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly
is acceptable to him.

Alleluia Verse
The heavens were opened and the voice of the Father thundered:
This is my beloved Son, listen to him.

Gospel Portion
From the first reading:
he shall bring forth justice to the nations,
not crying out, not shouting,
not making his voice heard in the street.
a bruised reed he shall not break,
and a smoldering wick he shall not quench.

From the gospel portion:

Jesus also had been baptized and was praying,
heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him
in bodily form like a dove.
And a voice came from heaven,
“You are my beloved Son;
with you I am well pleased.”

Let us too be pleasing to God.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry