Dear Parishioners and Friends,

This Sunday we celebrate the Baptism of the Lord, a feast that marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. In the waters of the Jordan, Jesus, though sinless, aligns Himself with humanity, affirming His mission to bring salvation to all. This moment is also a revelation of the Holy Trinity: the voice of the Father, the presence of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove and the beloved Son stepping forward in humility and obedience. The Baptism of the Lord invites us to reflect on our own baptism, the moment we were initiated into the family of God and called to live as His witnesses in the world. In a society searching for identity, purpose and connection, this feast reminds us of who we are: beloved children of God, called to renewal and mission.

In the first reading (Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7), the prophet presents the image of the Servant of the Lord, chosen by God to bring justice and healing to the nations. This servant is not loud or forceful, but gentle, steadfast and empowered by the Spirit to bring light to the world. Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of a Messiah who will embody God’s justice and mercy. He will not crush the weak but will tenderly restore and uplift. This prophecy finds its fulfilment in Jesus, whose baptism inaugurates His mission as the Servant of the Lord. At His baptism, Jesus is revealed as the Servant of Isaiah’s prophecy, anointed by the Holy Spirit and affirmed by the Father. His mission is to bring justice, healing and hope to a broken world. In our own lives, we are called to live out this mission. Baptism empowers us to be servants of God’s justice and mercy. This includes addressing inequalities, caring for the vulnerable and being voices of compassion in our communities.

This Sunday’s psalm (Psalm 29), celebrates the majesty of God’s voice, which is powerful and life-giving. It echoes the awe and reverence we feel when contemplating God’s presence in creation and in our lives. Just as the Servant of the Lord brings peace and healing, the psalmist proclaims that God’s voice blesses His people with peace. Both passages highlight the transformative power of God’s presence. At Jesus’ baptism, the voice of the Father declares Him the beloved Son, revealing the life-giving power of God’s word. This moment affirms Jesus’ identity and mission while reminding us of the peace that flows from living in harmony with God’s will. God’s voice continues to speak to us through Scripture, the sacraments and the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Are we listening? In a noisy world, we are called to discern His voice and respond with faith, allowing His peace to shape our lives and relationships.

In the second reading (Acts 10:34-38), Peter proclaims that God’s salvation is for all people. He describes how Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit and went about doing good, healing and delivering those oppressed by evil. The baptism of Jesus is the anointing that Peter speaks of, empowering Him for His mission. It reveals that Jesus’ ministry is for everyone, regardless of background or status. Peter’s message resonates with Isaiah’s prophecy of the Servant who brings justice and light to the nations. Both readings emphasize the universal scope of God’s love and salvation. As baptised Christians, we are called to follow in Christ’s footsteps, doing good, bringing healing and working for justice. In a society often divided by race, class or ideology, our baptism reminds us that we are all equal in God’s eyes and called to serve one another with humility and love.

In this Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22), Jesus is baptised by John in the Jordan. As He prays, the heavens open, the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove, and the Father’s voice declares: “You are my beloved Son; with You, I am well pleased.” The imagery of the Spirit descending on Jesus echoes Isaiah’s prophecy of the Servant anointed by the Spirit. Jesus is revealed as the one who will bring justice and healing to the world. Peter’s description of Jesus’ mission as one of healing and liberation is rooted in this moment. The baptism is not just a ritual but an inauguration of Jesus’ mission to bring salvation to all. Jesus’ baptism reminds us of our own. Through baptism, we are united with Christ and called to share in His mission. This means living lives that reflect His love, bringing light to others and building a society rooted in justice and peace.

At Jesus’ baptism, the Father proclaims Him the beloved Son. Through our baptism, we too are claimed as beloved children of God. This identity gives us dignity and purpose, calling us to live as people of faith and hope. Baptism is not just a private moment; it is a commissioning. We are anointed to be witnesses of Christ, sharing His love through acts of kindness, service and justice. The psalm reminds us that God blesses His people with peace. In a society marked by division and anxiety, we are called to be peacemakers, bringing reconciliation and healing to our relationships and communities.

I would like us to make a personal reflection and commitment in these 4 ways:

1. Renew Your Baptismal Promises: Reflect on the promises made at your baptism and how you are living them today. Ask God for the grace to deepen your commitment to Him.
2. Serve Others: Identify ways to bring Christ’s love to those in need, whether through volunteer work, acts of charity or simply being present to someone who feels alone.
3. Be a Light in Your Community: Share the Gospel through your actions, showing kindness, integrity and compassion in your daily interactions.
4. Pray for Guidance: Spend time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you in living out your baptismal call.

Dear brothers and sisters, the Baptism of the Lord is not just a commemoration of a past event; it is a call to renewal and mission. It reminds us of who we are; – beloved children of God— and challenges us to live out our baptism by being witnesses of Christ’s love in the world. As we leave the church this Sunday, let us carry the light of Christ into our homes, workplaces, schools and communities, living as people who reflect His justice, mercy and peace. May the Holy Spirit strengthen us in this mission, and may we always remember that we are God’s beloved, called to bring His love to the world.

Let us pray:
Lord, as we celebrate the Baptism of Your Son, renew in us the grace of our own baptism. Help us to live as Your beloved children, sharing Your love and light with all we meet. May Your Spirit guide us in our mission to build a world of justice, peace and hope. Amen.