Gospel Reflection for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, Year B.
Saturday, 06 January 2024
By The Benedictine Community
The Lord will bless his people with peace. Psalm 28
This year we hear Mark's account of the Baptism of Jesus. John the Baptist had been preaching about the One who was to come after him - One whose sandal he was not fit to untie. In fact John had spent his whole life anticipating the coming of this divine being.
Jesus' baptism has been beautifully portrayed in various film productions but we must internalise for ourselves the deep significance of it.
Jesus' decision to receive baptism from John is his supreme act of identification with sinful humanity - with you and with me! He chooses to be completely one like us in every way except sin. In this way he begins his saving mission; under the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and with the affirming blessing of His Father.
Jesus, Lord and Saviour, Beloved Son of the Father, be with us in our time of need. Holy Spirit, pour out your blessing on our war torn world.