The story from Matthew 3:13 – 17 which is read in our churches on the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus (Year A) is an account of both initiation and of being sent or commissioned. As we hear the Gospel reading along with the accompanying test from Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 we are reminded not just of Jesus having been chosen and named as “Son” and “Beloved”, but of his mission to bring about right relationships.
We too are called by our baptism to follow in his footsteps. We are chosen and called work to live in right relationship with our Creator, with one another and with Earth. We are commissioned to work wherever we are for greater justice and to free all those bound up and oppressed.
The following reflection by Veronica Lawson RSM is offered here to enrich reflection and prayer during the coming week:
https://www.mercyworld.org/reflection-on-the-gospel-baptism-of-jesus-a-vl-120120.pdf
