SOCL, BaptismB

Sunday January 07, 2024

The Baptism of the Lord

Reflection

In all our lives, there are “before and after” moments, whatever they might be (parenthood, marriage, career, etc.). In my life as a disciple, can I name any particular “before and after” moments? This probably won’t include baptism, because mostly we were just babies. But later, what happened to bring faith alive and to help me grow up as a believer? Such reflection may help us grasp the significance of John’s baptism for Jesus himself. For him, it was a true “before and after” event, sustained by the ringing affirmation, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”

Gospel, Mark 1:7-11

This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: “One mightier than I is coming after me.I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals.I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John.On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him.And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

Pointers for prayer

-John gives an example of humility as a person confident in his own role but not seeking to claim to be more than he is. He is able to acknowledge that Jesus is greater. There is freedom in being able to acknowledge the gifts of others without losing a sense of one’s own giftedness. Recall times when you were able to do this.

-The baptism of Jesus was an extraordinary religious experience for him. Something happened that was a major step forward for Jesus in coming to know that he was the beloved Son of God. We all have events in our lives that are milestones along the road to discovering who we are. What have been these milestones for you?

-“You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Bring to mind memories of experiences in which you knew you were the beloved (of God or of another person) and that the one who loved you was well pleased. Bring these experiences to mind with gratitude, knowing that the only proper response to love received is thankfulness. Perhaps you have also given that experience to another.

Action

God of salvation, in the river Jordan, you bathed your Son Jesus in glory and revealed him as your obedient servant. In spirit and in power, rend the heavens and come down to us. Strengthen us to acknowledge your Christ so that we, who are reborn in his likeness, may walk with him in the newness of life. Grant this through Jesus Christ, your Word made flesh, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.