This is my Beloved Son ~ A Reflection by M. A. Allen

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

Is 42:104, 6-7
Ps 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10 (11b)
Acts 10:34-38
Matt 3:13-17

Today, we come to the end of the Christmas Season. It is fitting to close this season with Jesus' Baptism by John at the Jordan River because it marks the true beginning of Jesus' active ministry of proclaiming the Good News.

John the Baptist was the herald announcing Jesus' coming. However, from now on, the Baptist's role would diminish and the ministry of Jesus would take center stage.

We can discover what kind of ministry to expect from Jesus and what His Good News will be about by carefully reading the tender words of Isaiah in the first reading. Isaiah tells us that Jesus' ministry will be a servant ministry and one that has been approved and upheld by His Heavenly Father. Jesus will not minister by shouting or crying out to make a statement. Instead, He will protect the "bruised reed" and shelter the "smoldering wick"; those of us who are hurting and in need of His comfort. Jesus will cure and set us free from the sins that bind us and keep us from living fully as God's holy people. (Is 42 ff)

Jesus' Baptism has a special meaning for us also. Our own Baptism activates a new dimension to our lives; something greater than ones self begins. We have now become "Children of the Light" - precious sons and daughters of God the Father and a brother to Our Lord Jesus Christ.

We become part of the community of believers which encompasses not only our parish family, but all who profess Jesus Christ as Lord, wherever they may be.

As the psalmist reminds us: we are to give the Lord the glory and praise that is due His name. We believe and trust that "the Lord will bless His people with peace." (Ps 29:11b)


~ Image from the Bible Picture Gallery