Although it may not feel like Christmas to us anymore, on this day, we celebrate the Savior's Baptism - a great Feast within the Christmas season. Our Gospel acclamation, in keeping with the season, is from Fr. James Chepponis' “Alleluia for Christmastime,” as we conclude this holy season of the year.
“O let all who thirst, let them come to the water. And let all who have nothing, let them come to the Lord: without money, without price. Why should you pay the price, except for the Lord?”
These lyrics make up the first verse of today's Communion Hymn, “Come to the Water" by John Foley, SJ. The song is a favorite of mine, as it speaks to anyone in need of spiritual refreshment. It calls all to come to the Lord in your need and He will fulfill those needs!
In this week's Gospel, Jesus comes to be baptized at the Jordan. Baptism marks the beginning of our life in Christ as believers. In order for those seeds of faith to take root and grow, we must remember to keep faithful to our own baptismal promises until the end of our days. They must be continually nourished by the Holy Spirit.
“O let all who thirst, let them come to the water. And let all who have nothing, let them come to the Lord: without money, without price. Why should you pay the price, except for the Lord?”
These lyrics make up the first verse of today's Communion Hymn, “Come to the Water" by John Foley, SJ. The song is a favorite of mine, as it speaks to anyone in need of spiritual refreshment. It calls all to come to the Lord in your need and He will fulfill those needs!
In this week's Gospel, Jesus comes to be baptized at the Jordan. Baptism marks the beginning of our life in Christ as believers. In order for those seeds of faith to take root and grow, we must remember to keep faithful to our own baptismal promises until the end of our days. They must be continually nourished by the Holy Spirit.
