The Baptism of the Lord

Our Christmas Time concludes as we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. Jesus gives us a beautiful example to follow because we know that he did not need to be baptized. He is the Son of God and is free of all sin but he chose to be baptized by John in the Jordan River. At our Lord's baptism we hear the voice of the Father say, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased" (Mark 1:11). As one commentary states, "Jesus listened with an open ear and an open heart to the voice of his Father. Listening, he obeyed. Let us, who have been baptized in him, listen to the voice that calls us beloved children and gives us a work to do, the work of the Gospel proclaimed and lived in love for God and neighbor" (Magnificat, 119). This is a beautiful day to renew our baptismal promises and renew our efforts to live the baptismal call that we have all received. Our baptismal call is to continue the mission of the Church by proclaiming the Good News and being active members. Let us pray for the grace to live our baptism, follow in the footsteps of our Lord, and be an example to others! Have a blessed day!!!