Baptism of the Lord Feast
Also Read: Mass Readings for 12 January 2025
First Reading: Isaiah 42: 1-4, 6-7
Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. (1)
I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness. (7)
Prophesying about Jesus many centuries earlier; Isaiah was enlightened to describe the Messiah! We pray today that we recognize our blindness and captivity of heart! We ask the great Prophet to intercede for us, that our eyes may see the “Light” which he was eagerly yearning to see!
In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 104: 1b-4, 24-25, 27-30
O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. (24)
When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground. (30)
Alleluia!
Second Reading: Titus 2: 11-14; 3: 4-7
He is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds. (14)
St. Paul’s letter to Titus reminds us to live godly, Christian lives. Christ redeemed us by his death and resurrection, but we must elevate our lives to be worthy of that redemption! He further wrote: “Those who believe in God must excel in good deeds…and avoid stupid arguments!” (ch.3:8-9) We have been saved by the grace of God in His mercy, let us be aware of this great blessing and try to emulate his goodness in our daily lives! Let us be generous in our thoughts, words, and actions.
In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Alleluia: Luke 3: 16
Alleluia, Alleluia!! John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. Alleluia!
Gospel: Luke 3: 15-16, 21-22
The Holy Spirit came down upon him in the bodily form of a dove, and a voice from heaven was heard, “You are my Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (22)
At Jesus’ baptism, God anoints him as a prophet and king, therefore initiating his ministry work. We can turn to St. John the Baptist and remember his ministry too! He was the voice in the wilderness and proclaimed: “He who is mightier than I is coming!” (16) Let us always remember “He who is mightier than I” especially when we are faced with temptations or trials. We know we can rely on his power and not on our own strength! He is mightier than all our problems! We thank the Lord for His mercy and grace, bestowed on us through Christ Jesus. Amen!
Happy Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord, Everyone! May we see the Light of Christ always before us. May we radiate His Light to all around us, Amen!
