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The Baptism of the Lord
January 9, 2023
Dear Family of Mary!
Today we remember how Jesus humbled himself to be baptized by His cousin, John the Baptist. This was a gesture of repentance and cleansing. Jesus did not need either one. But He chose to be baptized by John, in order to show us the way home to the Father. Only through repentance which is the turning away from sin, and cleansing which is the action of God the Father, as He forgives us, can we be brought to eternal life. Jesus leads us into that basic relationship with His Father by His example. So much love!! So much humility and service!
Matthew wrote:
Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. John tried to prevent him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” Jesus said to him in reply, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed him. After Jesus was baptized, he came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Mt 3:13-17)
Jesus shows us the way to the Father. If we follow Him, stay close to Him, imitate Him, and give Him permission to guide us, we will discover the wonder of the Father's love!
Our Lady is with us to help us to discover and choose that same relationship with the Father, by helping us to encounter her Son in prayer. She speaks to us about our baptism and how we should recognize the great gift we have been given in Baptism.
Here are two messages that show us the way:
March 25, 2018 "Dear children! I am calling you to be with me in prayer in this time of grace when darkness is fighting against the light. Pray, little children, confess and begin a new life in grace. Decide for God and He will lead you towards holiness; and the cross will be a sign of victory and hope for you. Be proud that you are baptized and grateful in your heart that you are a part of God’s plan. Thank you for having responded to my call."
December 25, 2011 "Dear children! Also today, in my arms I am carrying my Son Jesus to you, for Him to give you His peace. Pray, little children, and witness so that in every heart, not human but God's peace may prevail, which no one can destroy. It is that peace in the heart which God gives to those whom He loves. By your baptism you are all, in a special way called and loved, therefore witness and pray that you may be my extended hands to this world which yearns for God and peace. Thank you for having responded to my call."
We, the Baptized, have been given everything! We are priest, prophet and king! We are called and loved, and we are part of God's plan. If we stay close to Jesus, He will lead us in that plan for the salvation of many!
In Jesus, Mary and Joseph!
Cathy Nolan
(c) Mary TV 2023
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