SUNDAY OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD
The feast of Jesus; baptism marks the beginning of his public life. The first part of today’s Gospel corresponds to the presentation of John the Baptist and the radical difference between the baptism he practices - a baptism of conversion, for the forgiveness of sins - and that of Jesus. John’s is with water, Jesus; is with the Holy Spirit and fire.
This feast tells us that the mission which Jesus began was not going to be carried out by himself, because God the Father and the Holy Spirit would act with him, to make himself known to the world as a God of love, concerned about the material and spiritual needs of his people.
Today we also have the opportunity to reflect on the meaning and importance of our own Baptism; because to carry out our mission in life, we do not act alone. As baptized people we have the blessing and protection of God the Father, of Jesus Christ who has given his life for us, and of the Holy Spirit who acts in us as a fount of life. We too are God’s beloved children.
Fr. Tarcisio
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