This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: “One mightier than I is coming after me. I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” (Mk 1:7-11)
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/010824.cfm
The Christmas Season comes to its joyful conclusion with this celebration of the Lord’s Baptism (although in some countries Christmas continues until February 2nd!). The witness of John the Baptist invites us to rejoice in the baptism that Jesus offers us, to be baptized in the fire of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps the Lord has great expectations for us, as Jesus says, “You will do greater works than these” (Jn 14:12). We’ve been partying now for quite a while, maybe it’s time to get down to work building the Kingdom! Today el Padre celebrates a birthday!
These reflections are a result of more than 40 years of ministry as a Roman Catholic priest. Most of these years I spent in the Diocese of Charlotte which covers Western North Carolina. Now I am retired, and live in Medellín, Colombia where I continue to serve as a priest in the Archdiocese of Medellín.
The Baptism of the Lord, 2024
