Our tradition suggests that Jesus was about thirty years old at the time he was baptized by John in the Jordan.  It must have been an incredible moment for both John and Jesus.  For John, it was the moment for which he had been waiting.  The one who was coming, the anointed one, had arrived to begin his mission.  For Jesus too, it was a much anticipated moment.  Was this the time for his ministry to begin?  What was the Father asking him to do?  Would he be able to do all that was expected of him? 

            For most of us "cradle Catholics" our baptism is just a distant ceremony, maybe we’ve seen the pictures.  We don't sense the power or the significance of being commissioned as ambassadors of Christ.  Perhaps we need to hear those words of the Father, "You are my beloved child; with you I am well pleased." 

            On this Feast of the Baptism of the Lord we might want to consider for a moment the mission our Father has given us.  Why are we in this place, at this time in history?  What does God ask us to do for the people closest to us?  How can Christ reach out to others through us?

            Lord Jesus, stir up your Spirit within us.  Help us to realize that no human life is insignificant.  Show us the power we have to lift someone's burdens, to salt someone's life with love, to light the way for someone in darkness.

            Lord Jesus, help us to live in your kingdom right now in so that we may share it with others and enjoy it with you forever!  Amen!