84 / 85
Baptism of the Lord
Is 42:1-4, 6-7
Ps 29:1-2, 3-4, 9-10
Acts 10:34-38
Mark 1:7-11
Summary
Today’s readings all speak of establishing a nation through the Lord God’s serv-
ant (Jesus Christ) by the Holy Spirit, a nation that would serve Him and bring
forth justice; first the Jewish nation and then through Jesus’ baptism a nation
where Gentiles (most of us) are welcomed into His flock.
Reflection
I shouldn’t be but I’m always amazed when reading the Old Testament that it so
clearly points and prophesizes (and is quoted) in the New Testament. The first
reading reveals the baptism and anointing by John of Jesus: “my chosen one
with whom I am pleased and upon whom I have put my spirit;” the Holy Spirit
whom then empowered the disciples to speak and “proclaim peace through Je-
sus Christ.” Now the challenge for us: To proclaim His peace…To bring forth
justice. Not easy and, I would say, impossible without the Holy Spirit to guide
us. So we have
to remember
to read, study
and dwell on
theWord “in
season and out
of season” so
that when pre-
sented with is-
sues that call
upon us to tes-
tify of our
faith and/or
into action we
are prepared
with the right
spirit, the
Holy Spirit to
guide us.