In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him.
“The Church does not dispense the sacrament of baptism in order to acquire for herself an increase in membership but in order to consecrate a human being to God and to communicate to that person the divine gift of birth from God.” – Hans Urs von Balthasar
This week we will focus on the role baptism plays on the road to redemption. Christ began his earthly ministry by being baptized, and it is a sacred moment that all Christians participate in. While it may seem like a simple act, being dipped into water and coming back out, it is a profound moment. Take a few moments to reflect on your baptism and how it has shaped your faith. If you have not yet been baptized, spend some time in prayer contemplating your relationship with God and asking if now is time to begin preparing for baptism.