A Reflection on The Baptism of the Lord

By Fr. Eric Asamoah
Matthew 2:1-2

Epiphany celebration recalls several key moments when Jesus was revealed to the world: Adoration of the Magi (Mt 2:1-2), which is the most representative of Epiphany, the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and the First Miracle of Jesus at the Wedding in Cana. Jesus manifests His glory by turning water into wine, marking the beginning of His public ministry.
Today’s epiphany, the Baptism of the Lord, concludes the season of Christmas. But the closing of the various manifestations of God’s incarnation (Word made Flesh) for us in our world, beginning with Christmas will end with His presentation in the Temple otherwise known as Candlemas Day, Feb. 2nd.

The baptism of Jesus is a moment of special grace in our story of salvation. Jesus is both divine and human, so although without sin, He identifies with the human need for righteousness. Not only did He join us in our sinful state, but the Father and the Spirit are seen and heard to be there with Him.

The Gospel uses the simple phrase that “the heavens were opened,” but it is a powerful statement. In His baptism, God declares Jesus to be His beloved Son as the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove. Jesus explains that it is the right thing to do as it fulfils God’s expectations. God is pleased with Jesus’ presence.

Hence our baptism also pleases God revealing our identity, to the world. By baptism we are initiated into a community, becoming part of a people, God’s people, the Body of Christ.
In the waters of baptism, we died to our old selves, and we are cleansed from our sins and raised to new life. Through the anointing of the oil of chrism that is a part of our baptismal rite, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit, and we are permanently claimed as Christ’s disciple. The feast of the baptism of the Lord today reminds us of our identify and our mission. It reminds us of who we are and Whose we are.

We are baptized into Christ; we are to strive to be Christ-like. Try to act Christ-like. The prophet Isaiah describes Jesus as the suffering servant who will bring justice to the nations. As Christians, our mission includes transforming unjust structures of society. Therefore, we too must serve with love and compassion, stepping outside our comfort zones, as we strive to do God’s will. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can all be moved to embrace those who are not like us. Happy New Year Blessings to you all.