The Baptism of the Lord

The Baptism of the Lord

By REV. FR. SAMUEL FREDERICK

Ish 42:1-4.6-7, Acts 10:34-38, Mt. 3:13-17. On this First Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord. The Baptism of the Lord demonstrates the gratuitous call of God to belong to His flock. It is a way of reminding us of who we are. That is, members of God’s great family, through our Baptism in Christ. Today's first reading speaks of the Messiah who was to come. This was fulfilled in today's Gospel during Jesus’ baptism. The Spirit of God rested on Him, and bore testimony that He is the son of God. In this reading, we see the Trinitarian God united in action. God the Father spoke thus: “This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased.” The Holy Spirit bore witness to this by resting upon the son as a dove. They worked together in order to initiate the redemption of humanity through the water of baptism.

In the second reading, God extended His grace of redemption to Cornelius and his entire household as he did to us through the same water of baptism. Surprised about the love and mercy of God, Peter testified: “The truth I have now come to realize is that God has no favorites, but any one of any nationality who fears God is acceptable to him.” This shows that the water of baptism does not segregate. It is for all who are willing to pass through it. In today’s Gospel, Jesus was greater than John the Baptist, He allowed John to baptize Him. The most important lesson here is that Jesus tried to underscore the importance of baptism to our redemption and life as Christians. It is not a “mere sign.” Rather, it is a sacrament which leaves an indelible mark on the receiver. This is the sign which God sees and testifies: “This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased!”

May the Lord ignite His love in us and renew the Spirit He has given us! Amen!! Good morning and happy Sunday!!!

Our Social Media