GROW AS A DISCIPLE
In many renditions of the Baptism of Jesus, artists connect the scene at the Jordan River with Jesus’ death. A withered tree, for example, reminds us of the cross, or a mountain points to Mount Calvary. These connections show a real relationship between Jesus’ baptism and his passion: his baptism marks the acceptance and beginning of his mission, which would ultimately lead to his crucifixion. For us, too, baptism is a decisive moment which destines us for – you guessed it – death! Not physical death (which will happen regardless), but a death to everything that is not of God. By making us part of God’s family as his adopted children, our baptism summons us to “die” to our old life of sin and take on new life in Christ. This means turning away each day from sin so we can become increasingly fit to spend eternity with God. Like Jesus who rose both from the baptismal waters and from the tomb, we are meant, by our daily efforts to be faithful p to “rise” with him in the new life he won for us.
GO EVANGELIZE
After Jesus is baptized, two important events occur immediately: the Holy Spirit descends upon him while God the Father proclaims his delight in his Son: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” Here we see the profound meaning of our own baptism and its effects. In addition to cleansing us from the stain of original sin, baptism: 1) gives us the gift of the Holy Spirit; and 2) welcomes us into God’s family as his adopted children. Armed with the Holy Spirit and the assurance of God’s fatherly care, we are equipped to engage in the daily struggle of dying-and-rising in Christ. We can always call on the Holy Spirit for strength when we face temptations or difficult decisions. Likewise, when we are discouraged or we confront our own weaknesses, we can look to the Father for help. Recall the words which the Father spoke to Jesus, and which he says to us in our baptism (and he doesn’t take them back!): You are my beloved son. You are my beloved daughter. With you I am well pleased.
CELEBRATE
Find the date (or approximate date) of your baptism and the baptismal dates of your immediate family members. Make a list of the dates and spend time thanking God for his fatherly care for you. Then, when someone’s baptismal anniversary comes around, make sure to celebrate!
By The Faithful Disciple