Baptism of Jesus: Today's Scripture: Isaiah 42:1-7 or Isaiah 40: 1-11; Timothy 2:11-14, 3: 4-7 or Acts of the Apostles 10: 34-38; Luke 3:15-22 can be read at www.usccb.org/nab.

Baptism: A Life-Changing Experience

Today the Christian Church moves in “fast-forward”, from the Infancy narratives two weeks ago and the story of the 12 year old Jesus last week to the ministry of the early Christian community. Talk about a leap! Buthere we are ready to look at ministry with the story of Jesus' Baptism and the beginning of his adult ministry.

Probably each of us can think of significant, almost life-changing events in life- events that have helped shape one's life direction.

God’s Word today reminds us that for each of us, Baptism was such a moment: a moment that can define who we are; one that can give direction and new meaning to life (Luke).

Such direction is clearly given: Baptism is meant to make a difference in our lives, especially in the ways we continue to bring God’s love to others and work toward peace and justice. (Isaiah, Acts).

To think about:
Do I look at Baptism as a “life-defining” event, an event that comes with a “job description”: living as a child of God?
Do I tap into the resource of God’s covenant with me as I live my life?
Do I see myself and others as God’s beloved?
Can I use my time, talents, or treasure to bring God’s love to others at home, in school, at work?

To do: Look at pictures of your child’s Baptism and talk about the significance of that event. Remind yourself of God’s covenant with you as you make decisions this week, especially in the way you treat others.
Bless your child by making the Sign of the Cross on your child’s forehead before school or bed.

To pray: Insert your name and hear God speak to you, “You,____, are my Beloved; in you I am well pleased.”
Next week: 2nd Sunday after Epiphany: Isaiah 62: 1-5; 1 Corinthians 12: 1-11; John 2: 1-11

"Following Stars": Reflection for the Celebration of Epiphany, Jan 3, 2010

Scripture for the Celebration of Epiphany: Isaiah 60: 1-6; Ephesians 3: 1-6; Matthew 2:1-12 can be read at www.usccb.org/nab.

Following Stars

As we've all probably experienced at one time or another, in the midst of darkness even the smallest light can make a difference.
Today God’s Word reminds us that for all of us, regardless of the darkness we may experience, Jesus is a Light, a Star (Isaiah): "Your light has come,the glory of the Lord shines upon you. See, darkness covers the earth,and thick clouds cover the peoples; but upon you the LORD shines,and over you appears his glory."

What a difference that Star can make! Our lives can have new direction, we can find joy in simple occurrences (Matthew): "They were overjoyed at seeing the star... they departed for their country by another way."

Light helps us find our way in the midst of any darkness. Whether that darkness be personal, local or global, the Light of Jesus can touch and guide lives (Ephesians): "You are coheirs, members of the same body, and copartners in the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel."

May we wisely follow the Star of God's Light and Love in this new year.

To think about: What stars am I following?

What stars are my children following?

Do I need to look to different “stars” for life this year?

Can I find ways to let Jesus, the “Star of Light”, guide me and my family this year?

Is joy a significant part of my relationship with God?


To do: Notice the “stars” you follow as you make decisions.

Consciously change one way you usually react or think about someone by letting the Star of Jesus’ Light guide you.

Make a few simple resolutions to use your time, talent, or treasure to bring Jesus’ Light to others.


To pray: “Jesus, be the Star who guides me, the Light who directs my path.”


Next week: Baptism of Jesus: Isaiah 42:1-7; Acts of the Apostles 10: 34-38; Luke 3:15-22