This Sunday, we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, a beautiful moment that brings the Christmas season to a close and opens before us the public mission of Jesus. At the Jordan River, something extraordinary happens: heaven is opened, the Spirit descends, and the Father’s voice is heard saying, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” This feast is not only about Jesus—it is also deeply about us.
The first reading from the Book of Isaiah presents the figure of the Servant of the Lord: chosen, upheld by God, filled with the Spirit, sent to bring justice, light, and freedom. The Church recognizes Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy. Yet, through baptism, this identity is extended to all of us. We too are chosen, loved, and entrusted with a mission. Baptism is not simply a ritual from the past; it is the foundation of our Christian identity and vocation.
In the Acts of the Apostles, Peter proclaims that “God shows no partiality” and that Jesus is “Lord of all.” He summarizes the life of Jesus in a powerful way: “He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed.” This simple description challenges us. If we belong to Christ, if we bear His name, then our lives must also reflect this pattern—doing good, healing wounds, and being instruments of God’s mercy in everyday situations.
The Gospel highlights a striking scene of humility. John the Baptist, the great prophet, and Jesus, the Son of God, stand together in the waters of the Jordan. Jesus, though sinless, chooses to be baptized, standing in solidarity with sinners. In that moment, God the Father reveals that He has held nothing back. In the past, He sent prophets and holy people; now He sends His own Son. As Jesus later teaches in the parable of the vineyard, God sends His beloved Son as the final and greatest gift (cf. Lk 20:9-19).
What, then, happens in our baptism? God places His seal upon us. The Church teaches that baptism leaves an indelible spiritual mark—we belong to God forever. Each of us can hear the Father saying: “You are my beloved; with you I am well pleased.” And with that identity comes a mission.
As we celebrate this feast, let us renew our gratitude for the gift of baptism. May we live consciously as chosen and beloved children of God, and may we faithfully carry out our mission to reflect Christ’s love, humility, and compassion in our parish, our families, and our world.
