Welcome to a reflection on the Solemnity of the Baptism of the Lord, presented by the priest Eugenio Bujalance. This feast marks the conclusion of the Christmas season, bringing closure to the beautiful mystery of Christ’s birth.
As we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, we are reminded of the profound love of God and the revelation of His identity to us. Through Jesus, we come to understand what God desires from each of us. By taking on human form, Jesus enables us to partake in the divine nature, allowing us to become children of God. In essence, Jesus’ baptism clarifies the purpose of his birth – he came into this world so that we may experience spiritual rebirth.
The distinction between John the Baptist and Jesus is crucial. While John sought to draw closer to God, Jesus is God Himself reaching out to us. John baptizes with water, but Jesus baptizes with the Holy Spirit and fire, signifying a deeper purification. It is Jesus who empowers the water to cleanse us, emphasizing the transformative nature of His baptism.
According to Tertullian, Christ is always associated with water, symbolizing the Church as a nurturing mother that gives birth to believers through the sacrament of baptism.
Incorporating the luminous mysteries into the rosary, Saint John Paul II highlighted the Baptism of Jesus as the first luminous event. But why is Jesus’ baptism considered luminous?
In his book “Jesus of Nazareth,” Benedict XVI challenges the notion that Jesus was enlightened about his divine identity at his baptism. Jesus always knew his mission and divine nature, as evident from his words in the temple at a young age. The baptism was a revelation for humanity, shedding light on our own adoption as children of God through Christ.
The baptism in the Jordan symbolizes the opportunity for us to share in the filial relationship of Jesus with the Father, embracing our identity as children of God. It is a source of profound joy and contentment, as exemplified by the heartfelt prayer of an elderly woman who acknowledged her divine sonship every day.
Embracing humility, Jesus descended into the depths of the Jordan River, mirroring his descent into our own brokenness and need. His act of baptism signifies a profound act of love, reaching out to the lowest parts of our being.
Let us rediscover the grace of our own baptism, acknowledging our need for confession and the seeking of our souls by the One who loves us unconditionally. Embracing our identity as children of God, we find true happiness and purpose in our journey of faith.
