3-Jan-17

January 3, 2017

Gospel JN 1:29-34
John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said,
"Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.
He is the one of whom I said,
'A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me
because he existed before me.'
I did not know him,
but the reason why I came baptizing with water
was that he might be made known to Israel."
John testified further, saying,
"I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky
and remain upon him.
I did not know him,
but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me,
'On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain,
he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.'
Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God."
Reflection:
In speaking of Jesus, John said, "......but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known...."
We are also called to make Christ known.
Looking back, I realize that I am the product of both the blessings and the errors of my life
One of my greatest blessings is my parents felt called to make Jesus Christ known to me. My relationship with Jesus began with my baptism.
But, I can hardly speak of John the Baptist without thinking about being present at the baptism of my grandchildren.
I rejoiced as water was poured over my grandchild's head and the words intoned, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."
Again, speaking of Jesus, John proclaimed, "......he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit."
The Holy Spirit of God is the One who guides, inspires and protects us as we travel the roads of life. Christ's love and faithfulness has carried me though my many errors.
The same Holy Spirit sustains each of us through our mistakes and failures, whispering, "Come back to God with all your heart. Don't let fear keep us apart." (Hosea)
Truly, there is no greater gift a parent or grandparent can give their child than to start them on the road that leads to God.
"For that which we believe is not for ourselves alone; it must be shared with others." - - Unknown