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.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
The Mass intention is for Canon Anthony, Private Intention (Neil) and Saint Margaret Clitherow Academy.
Reflection:
John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. It seems strange why Jesus, who is sinless, would have Himself baptized in the Jordan. St Gregory Nazianzen wrote “Christ was baptized that he might plunge the old Adam entirely in the water.” By humbling Himself to receive John’s baptism, Jesus is slowly recovering broken humanity. Indeed, like any doting parent, the Father expressed His delight on Christ: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” His delight can also be ours if we mirror Jesus’ humility in a world that favours the proud and mighty. The likes of Jan Beyzym, Maria Repetto, Adomnan of Iona, Damien of Molokai, and Bernardine of Siena come to mind. They humbly served the victims of plague and pandemic during their time. Human suffering continues up to this day. Jesus desires to reach out to them. It is up to us, baptized Christians, to make that happen.
- Would you consider being a Christian as an honour or a responsibility? Why or why not?
- How do you mirror Jesus’ humility in your own vocation?
- How often do you affirm a fellow Christian’s faith?
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Through Baptism, You have shared Your life with us. Help us to live and love like You, for the glory of the Father and the salvation of souls. Amen.
