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The opening words of Mark’s Gospel he tell us that John the Baptist was proclaiming the
baptism of the “chosen one” spoken by Isaiah. In the mystery of Christ’s Baptism in the
Jordan River, we encounter the truth of the “chosen one’s” incarnation and His manifes-
tation as the Christ. In one of the few instances in the Bible we see the presence of the
Trinity fully described: The Father’s voice from heaven shows that Jesus of Nazareth is
the eternal Son, and the descending of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove shows the
Trinitarian nature of the Christian God. The true God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, shows
Himself in Christ, through Him, with Him and in Him. What a glorious and heavenly sight
for those who were present!
As today’s readings tell us, the Sacrament of Baptism is insufficient to save us. We must
live our faith in Christ by obeying the commandments of God. He wants his love and
truth to shine through us so that others may see the goodness and
truth of his message of salvation.
On this day, let us not only honor and celebrate the Baptism of the
Lord but also celebrate our baptism and make a promise to re-
member its meaning in our spiritual lives. Let us circle another date
for celebration and reflection in our calendar: the Date of our Bap-
tism.
Prayer
God of grace and glory,
you call us with your voice of flame
to be your people, faithful and courageous.
As your beloved Son
embraced his mission in the waters of baptism,
inspire us with the fire of your Spirit
to join in his transforming work.
We ask this in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen.
_______
Ramón B. Barreras
Parishioner
Husband to Veronica, and Father to Patrick and Sofia