Study, Pray, Serve: The Baptism of the Lord

Let’s explore the themes we find in the Mass readings for the Baptism of the Lord.

1st Reading – Isaiah 42:1-4,6-7

• The chosen servant has received the spirit of God and will bring forth justice.
• The servant will establish a covenant with the people and bring light and healing to the nations.

Psalm – 29:1-4,9-10

• “The Lord will bless his people with peace.”
• We give glory and praise to God, who is enthroned as king forever.

2nd Reading – Acts of the Apostles 10:34-38

• Peter speaks to the people in the house of Cornelius, saying that God shows no partiality.
• He then recounts the basic facts about Jesus, inviting the people to fear God and act uprightly.

Gospel – Matthew 3:13-17

• John the Baptist tries to prevent Jesus from being baptized by him, but the Lord directs him to allow it to fulfill all righteousness.
• As Jesus is baptized, the Holy Spirit descends upon him in the form of a dove, and the voice of the Father proclaims, “This is my beloved Son; with whom I am well pleased.”

Mass Readings – The Baptism of the Lord (#21)

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