In the Image of God

In the second reading that the liturgy offers us this Sunday, in which we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we find Saint Peter’s powerful discourse on life in the Spirit and his understanding that God shows no partiality.

When we were baptized, our parents and godparents, and later we ourselves when we were confirmed, we renewed our baptismal promises. And each time, we promised to “seek and serve Christ in all people, loving our neighbor as ourselves.”

We also promise to respect the dignity of every human being. Therefore, the reality of many migrant workers among us brings this issue to the forefront of our minds and hearts. As baptized people, that is, as Christians and disciples of Christ, we approach all people, especially foreigners, as gifts from God to us, and we extend our hospitality to them.

In this Sunday’s Gospel passage, we see the humility of our Lord when he says, “It is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Righteousness has to do with the way God wants things to be, and God obviously wants us to submit to one another in service and sacrifice.

This is what baptism should lead to: a strong sense of service and a mission that fulfills what it means to be righteous. While the baptism of a child is a precious thing, an event that leaves us all smiling and joyful, we cannot know what God has in mind for this person once they have been nurtured in the love of the Lord. Often, we don’t get to see the rest of the story; but if we did, we would be amazed.

There are countless stories of people who follow the vocation of service, supported by their baptismal vows and their connection to Christ and his Church. I invite you to take a moment this week and reflect on where your baptismal journey has led you.

What have you done as a result of your life in Christ? How has Jesus guided you to use your talents and gifts for righteous actions? What has brought you joy on this journey?

Then look at your brothers and sisters and give thanks that together you can celebrate your life in Christ and look forward to future adventures. We are a community in the image of God, who is community.

Fr. Lalo Jara, OFM
Pastor, Mission San Luis Rey Parish