A Promise is a Promise

The Baptism of Jesus was a Mission Statement. Immersed in the waters of the Jordan, Jesus spoke an unequivocal NO to the ugly reality of sin, and a resounding YES to the will of his Father in Heaven.  

Christ's baptism by John was more than empty ritual. Jesus lived the truth of his Baptism in the thoughts, words and actions of his daily life. He ultimately ratified his NO to sin and YES to God, on the altar of the cross, when he cried out ... Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

On this Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, Catholic Christians are challenged to remember the day of their own Baptism. Those baptized as adults, said NO to sin and YES to God through their baptismal promises. Parents and Godparents spoke for those baptized as infants. By accepting the role of godparent, they made a commitment to lead the newly baptized to an adult affirmation of faith.

Unfortunately, many of the baptized, both adults and infants, never take ownership of their baptismal  vows. They often live in ways that totally contradict the solemn promises made before God. Sin and selfishness dominate their lives and make a lie out of their claim to be Christians, disciples of Jesus Christ.

Normally, on this Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, the Church celebrates the Rite for the Blessing and Sprinkling of Water. It's a call to conscience, a challenge to renew the YES and NO of our baptism in solidarity with Jesus. It's a solemn invitation to die with Christ to sin and to live with him for God.

Sadly, this year pandemic restrictions prevent us from celebrating the Rite for the Blessing and Sprinkling of Water. But that doesn't absolve us from taking up the challenge it poses. Every day is a new day. And with every new day comes the possibility of change and renewal. With our eyes fixed on Jesus, we can shrug off the chains of sin and selfishness. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can turn yesterday's NO into a loving YES to God.

On this Feast of the Baptism of Jesus, I invite you to remember the day of your own Baptism. Review the photographs in your keepsake album, and light your baptismal candle (if you still have it). Then unite your heart to the heart of Jesus, and prayerfully renew your baptismal promises. Renounce Satan, and all his works, and all his empty promises. And in solidarity with Jesus, speak a resounding YES to God.