The Sunday of the Baptism of the Lord signifies the transition from the Christmas season to Ordinary Time. Churches around the world celebrate this day by showcasing the Baby Jesus in the manger while reflecting on the Gospel accounts of his baptism in the Jordan River, a significant event that took place around 30 years after his birth. It’s a moment where the entirety of Jesus’ hidden life is encapsulated in a single day.
While Ordinary Time may seem mundane, it holds deep spiritual and theological significance. The Gospels on Sundays during this period shed light on Jesus’ public ministry, but it also serves as an invitation to contemplate his hidden life in Nazareth: his upbringing with Mary and Joseph, his pursuit of knowledge and virtues, his labor in the carpentry trade, and his interactions with neighbors. Every aspect of his life carried immense value, as it was all done with love.
Holiness in the Ordinary
Ordinary Time is intricately linked to the call to holiness in everyday life, a doctrine championed by St. Josemaría Escrivá and upheld by the Second Vatican Council. Burgos holds a special significance in the life of the founder of Opus Dei.
During the tumultuous Spanish Civil War in 1938, St. Josemaría sought refuge in Burgos after fleeing Madrid. In those 14 months, amidst challenges, he engaged in intense pastoral work, inspiring many through his encounters and conversations.
One poignant memory was his interactions with weary, wounded soldiers who found solace and encouragement in St. Josemaría’s presence. He not only comforted them but also urged them to sanctify their daily routines, emphasizing that God could be found in the smallest acts performed with love.
A Lesson from Burgos Cathedral
St. Josemaría often took these soldiers to Burgos Cathedral, urging them to appreciate the intricate details of its architecture and sculptures, some of which were hidden from plain view. He posed a question: “For whom were these details crafted if nobody sees them?” His answer resonated profoundly: “For God, for the artists knew that He sees everything.”
This lesson on holiness in diligent work remains pertinent today. Each act of love and every task executed with excellence and devotion to God can be a form of divine worship.
Embracing our Vocation with Zest
St. Josemaría consistently emphasized that all individuals are called to holiness, irrespective of their circumstances. Whether in an office, a workshop, or a household, our daily responsibilities can transform into prayers if offered to God with dedication.
Following his example, we can ponder on how to infuse our professional roles with spiritual significance. Just like the artisans who constructed cathedrals with intricate details for God’s glory, we too can imbue our daily tasks with purpose and beauty.
During this Ordinary Time, let’s remember that every moment holds eternal value when approached with love. As St. Clement of Alexandria aptly said: “God is omnipresent. Let us extol the Lord in every daily endeavor and be united with Him always.”
