Each year the feast of the Baptism of the Lord completes our celebration of the Christmas season. On Monday we begin a stretch of Ordinary Time until Ash Wednesday. Luke’s version of Jesus’ baptism is a little different than the version in the other gospels. Luke portrays Jesus at prayer after his baptism when the Holy Spirit descends upon him and he hears the marvelous words: “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
This gospel connects with us in two ways. While we are at prayer in the Eucharistic celebration we ponder the meaning of the divine message proclaimed about Jesus the Christ. Also, like for Jesus, after our baptism we have experiences that open up doors into the meaning of being God’s dear children. This may happen when we are at prayer, going about our daily activities, helping someone in need, or being cared for by someone in a striking way.
When are you especially aware that Jesus is the beloved Son of God? When are you especially aware of God’s redeeming love for you?