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.”
“Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart.” May the example of the Mother of God inspire us to pause and ponder how our faith directs our lives as we embark on a New Year.
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On this feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, we recognize that our families become blessed when we welcome Christ into our hearts and homes.
Chapters six and seven in the Acts of the Apostles focus largely on Stephen, the first martyr whose witness reminds us of the true cost of discipleship…demanding even our lives out of love for Jesus Christ.
Three Great Things 