Baptism of Our Lord

On the Feast of the Epiphany, the revelation of the Lord to the world is celebrated and three events are remembered: the adoration of the magi from the east, the baptism of our Lord, and His first recorded miracle at Cana. In Western Christianity, the visit of the Magi is emphasized on January 6th, and our Lord's baptism is traditionally celebrated today, on the octave of the Epiphany. The wedding feast at Cana will be remembered again this Sunday.

Although our Lord was not a sinner, He humbled Himself for our sakes, and suffered all that He asks of us. He did not need baptism; baptism, rather, needed the power of Christ [St. John Chrysostom]. By His power, baptism can now wash away our sins, making our souls a fit habitation for the Holy Spirit.

After having humbled Himself, He was exalted. Coming out of the water, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him as a Dove, and a voice from Heaven said, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." [Matthew 3:16-17]

May we follow His path through the troubles and humiliations of this life towards God the Father, Who has made us and has prepared a lasting home for us.