When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove and a voice from the heavens rang out, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” No such dove was seen or voice was heard when we were baptized, yet the Holy Spirit did descend upon us in baptism and we were welcomed into this holy family, initiated into the body of Christ. Let us give thanks today for the blessings we received in baptism, blessings we note in the baptism we celebrate today.
Introduction to the Liturgy of the Word
In the first reading, we hear Isaiah proclaim that the chosen one, imbued with God’s spirit, will bring justice, establish a covenant, and free those who dwell in darkness. Listening to his words, we marvel at how Jesus fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecies, but we also realize how far we still need to go. Let us listen to God’s word and consider how Jesus and the Holy Spirit can work through us to bring light, blessing, and justice to all.
Today’s second reading combines two readings from Christmas, when we celebrated the birth of God’s Son in our world. Today, in the context of this holy feast, when we hear Paul tell Titus that we were saved by the bath of rebirth and renewed by the Holy Spirit, we realize what a gift we have been given. Jesus began his ministry after receiving the Holy Spirit. We received the Holy Spirit in baptism and confirmation. May what God has so richly poured out on us bear fruit in our lives.
Reflections
• It may not be immediately apparent, but Luke’s account of Jesus’ baptism reveals that Jesus engaged in dialogue with his Father. Luke says that upon being baptized, Jesus prayed to his Father. As he prayed, God spoke to him from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased” (Luke 3:22). Though heaven could not be seen opening on the occasion of our own baptism, we are indeed God’s beloved sons and daughters. Let us pray to God as Jesus did, as Jesus taught us, and realize how pleased God is in us.
Question of the Week
How has the Holy Spirit, whom I received in baptism, influenced my outlook and my actions?
-from Pastoral Patterns
readings of the mass
LISTEN HEREto the Audio Recordings of the Readings of Sunday, January 9th, 2022, Baptism of the Lord.
SELECT HEREfor the Readings of Sunday, January 9th, 2022, Baptism of the Lord.
The Feast of the baptism of the Lord
DISCOVER the significance of this Feast on January 9th, 2022.
John answered them all, “I baptize you with water; but he who is mightier than I is coming...he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit...” Luke 3:16
A Sign for All Human Beings
The Catholic Catechism states that “Jesus’ immersion in the water is a sign for all human beings of the need to die to themselves to do God’s will.” In other words, as baptized Catholics there is only one gift that we need to give to Jesus – the gift of ourselves. Surrender yourself to God, place your trust in Him and allow the Holy Spirit to work through you for the greater glory of God.
New Year resolutions...
Though it is difficult to change habits or incorporate new ones, there are certain things all Catholics should aspire to each and every day of their lives.
SELECT HERE for 5 solid suggested resolutions for Catholics to make every single year.
9 Days for Life is a multi-faceted novena for the respect and protection of human life. Each day, a different intention is accompanied by a short reflection, suggested actions, and related information.
