Fr. Marvin’s Reflection - January 11, 2026

The Baptism of the Lord is a profound moment in salvation history that marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry. At the Jordan River, Jesus, sinless and perfect, humbles Himself to be baptized by John. This act reveals Jesus' deep solidarity with humanity — He stands with sinners not because He needs purification, but because He desires to accompany us on the path to redemption. 

As Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends upon Him like a dove, while the Father's voice resonates, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). This Trinitarian revelation highlights the mystery of God as a communion of love and reaffirms Jesus' divine identity. 

St. Gregory of Nazianzus beautifully reflects on this mystery: "Today let us do honor to Christ's baptism and celebrate this feast in holiness. Be cleansed entirely and continue to be cleansed. Nothing gives such pleasure to God as the conversion and salvation of men, for whom His every word and every revelation exist." 

Through His baptism, Jesus sanctifies the waters, instituting the sacrament of Baptism, which cleanses us of sin and makes us beloved children of God. We receive the Holy Spirit, becoming members of Christ's Body, the Church, and sharing in His mission to bring His light to the world. 

In reflecting on the Baptism of the Lord, consider this: How does your own baptism call you to live as a beloved child of God, sharing in Christ’s mission in your daily life?

In Christ,    

Fr. Marvin