The Baptism of our Lord.

The Sacrament of Baptism is the key that unlocks the spring of Eternal Life. Holy Baptism holds the first place among the sacraments, because it is the gateway of the spiritual life. By it, we are made members of Christ and incorporated with the Church. The word Baptism is derived from the Greek word, bapto, or baptizo, to wash or immerse. It signifies, therefore, that washing is the essential idea of the sacrament.

If the baptism of John was for repentance, then why did Jesus seek baptism from John at the river Jordan? Objectively and subjectively, Jesus had no need of baptism from John; in fact, John was preparing the people to receive Jesus into their lives. However, theologically this is an important moment for humanity as it continues to unfold the mystery of incarnation. Jesus embraced human nature at his birth.Now at baptism, he takes on human frailties, which he will redeem at his death on the cross.

Christ instituted the Sacrament of Baptism to be an efficacious sign of grace and a share of his salvation. He commands His disciples to baptize all in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and declared explicitly the absolute necessity of baptism. "Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy ghost, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God.". Therefore, only through the Sacrament of Baptism, the image and likeness of God is restored once again in us , and we are made the children of God and heirs of His Kingdom.

The unfolding of the mystery of incarnation delights the Heavenly Father, "You are my Son, the Beloved; my favor rests on you." This is an affirmation and confirmation of Jesus' ministry oon earth by His Father, and an open invitation for all people to share the glory of his Son. At our baptism, the Heavenly Father embraces each one of us, as His own beloved sons and daughters; since, he perceives the reflection of His Son, Jesus. Needless to say, from baptism on, we are called upon to imitate Christ in our life, and be His reflection to others.
(Fr. Peter Fernandes,sfx)