Today we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, the completion of the Christmas Season. Last week we celebrated the Epiphany, when Mary’s newborn baby was revealed to the world. This week we hear God’s voice revealing Jesus as the Son of God. “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (Mk 1:11)
Words of affirmation are so important. They tell us that the person speaking to us respects us. They improve our friendship and strengthen our commitment to each other. God was pleased that Jesus was beginning his ministry. He revealed Jesus’ identity and his great love for his Son.
Who doesn’t need that kind of affirmation every day? When we pray we acknowledge God as the Lord of our lives, He in turn affirms who we are in relation to Him. When we hear that good news we understand more and more we are His beloved children.
Our friends and family need to hear that from us as well. It’s not just saying something to make them feel special. It’s being sensitive and pointing out something we appreciate about them. It might be their generosity, or kindness, or patience, or their great faith. All these comments deepen and strengthen our relationships.
When we were baptized we were told, “You have become a new creation and have clothed yourself in Christ.” Baptism affirms our relationship to God and one another, and our vocation of ministering to build the kingdom of God. Baptism has created us anew and given us new life and purpose. Also, no matter what we are wearing, we are clothed in Christ. Therefore, what we do and what others see, we hope to show that we have indeed, put on Christ. As we begin this New Year, may God be well pleased with all of us.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
Comments
There are no comments yet - be the first one to comment: