Greetings on this The Baptism of the Lord
Readings: Is 42:1-4, 6-7; Ps 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10; Mk 1:7-11
Notes
Baptism initiates the beginning of the Christian life. It is the human acceptance of the divine graces offered. It is our rebirth in this life and the pathway to a beatific eternal life. You can review the references below. The baptism of Jesus is both the model for the future of the Sacramental Rite and also his initiation into his ministry as Messiah.
References
- Pope Francis baptises some babies this Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. Watch the video here: https://www.usccb.org/resources/pope-baptism-says-we-are-gods-beloved-children
- A brief piece on the importance of baptism is found here: https://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/sacraments-and-sacramentals/baptism
Summary
Today’s reflection will focus on the four options in the first reading. Four different, overlapping yet distinct points relative to the baptism of the Lord.
- Isaiah 42 – Jesus is Son and Servant. Chosen and empowered to fulfill the saving mission of the Father.
- Isaiah 55 – Come everyone! Rich or poor! Come to the saving waters without cost and accept the love for you since the beginning of time.
- Acts 10 – This promise is for everyone. None are excluded from the saving love of God.
- 1 Jn – You are begotten. In the simplest terms, you are “Fathered”. You have a Father now and forever. Hs is all things we imagine the good of fatherhood would be.
Reflection
The Baptism of the Lord is transferred to Monday when Epiphany Sunday is the day before. That is not the proper language for the transfer but it’ll do. It doesn’t happen frequently. But it reminds us to never forget the invitation to baptism includes the gentile.
Personal Reflection
My cousin came to visit yesterday. We began our family memories and reunion with the celebration of the Holy Mass of the Epiphany of the Lord. Here this morning of the Baptism of the Lord I bask in the glow of family love. It is my cousin who reminded me of love that is perduring even when it is not visible. In baptism we are begotten, created, fathered, and risen. We told stories of her Dad, my uncle, a hero of a man in so many measures.
First Reading
- Option: Is 42:1-4, 6-7 – 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.
- Option: Is 55:1-11 – Thus says the LORD: All you who are thirsty, come to the water!
- Option: Acts 10:34-38 – Peter proceeded to speak to those gathered in the house of Cornelius, saying: In truth, I see that God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him.
- Option: 1 Jn 5:1-9 – Beloved: Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is begotten by God, and everyone who loves the Father loves also the one begotten by him.
Responsorial (/R options today)
The Lord will bless his people with peace.
You will draw water joyfully from the springs of salvation.
Gospel Acclamation
John saw Jesus approaching him, and said: Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Gospel
This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: “One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry