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John was baptising many in the River Jordan as a sign of repentance but he told the people that there was a greater baptism to come. He was simply baptising with water as a sign of repentance for sin but Jesus would bring a baptism which was a giving of God's own Spirit, and a call to identity with the work and mission of Jesus himself.
But, before that, Jesus Himself submits to the baptism of John. In doing so he identifies himself with the people he has come to serve and expresses his solidarity with them. "He was like us in all things - but sin." For the baptism of Jesus is significantly different. As he emerged from the water, "he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him". At the same time a voice was heard from the heavens saying, "You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased." We can say that this was Jesus' 'Pentecost' experience. He is filled with the Spirit of his Father and is now empowered to carry out his Messianic mission. He has the full endorsement of his Father, "with you I am well pleased". Let us live our lives in such a way that the Father can say that of us too.
God sends out his word to the earth.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That in our time, unfortunately marked by many episodes of violence, the pastors of the Church may continue to indicate the way of peace and understanding among peoples.
Elaboration
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