Pastor’s Desk – Baptism of the Lord

New Energy

Jesus’ baptism by John was a special moment – the real coming of God’s spirit upon him, the Spirit who had come on Mary at the moment of Jesus’ conception, and would be with Jesus at his last moments on the Cross.

The spirit brings him new energy. This feast marks that something new is happening, and that Jesus knows he is the beloved son; from eternity and into time.  The Spirit came upon him – but not just for himself.  He would send the Spirit later to us, to help us to forgive and to persevere in doing good.

This is a feast about energy. Jesus found a new spirit in himself after his prayer and he heard words he would never forget. Maybe you have heard words of love from someone you will never forget.  They give energy to the heart and soul, making us people always on the go, ready for new life within us.

The spirit pours the energy of God into bread and wine and they are changed forever. He sends himself forever, sending the love and presence and energy of God.

We know that we can get stuck. We need new infusions of the Spirit to give new energy.  Can we be the type of people who others think it’s good to meet?  Can we be people open to the spirit of God, open to new life, new love, and being really fully the individuals we can be?

Recall your baptism: imagine water being poured over you,

and allow this love of God fill you today.

Lord, thank you for the gift of Baptism.

Donal Neary SJ