Dear Parishioners and Visitors,

This weekend we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. We are familiar with the event as it is described to us in the Gospel we will hear this weekend (Matthew 3:13-17): Jesus was baptized in the River Jordan by John the Baptist; the Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove; and the voice of the Father was heard, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

This was the beginning of the Lord’s public ministry. In our other Scripture readings this weekend, the characteristics of this ministry become clear. The prophet Isaiah speaks of justice, light, peace, healing, teaching, and salvation. If we go through that list, we will be able to see how each of us, in our own lives and circumstances, needs these things. We will also recognize that the whole world needs these things.

Our own baptism gives us a share in God’s own life (grace) as his adopted children. We receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit so that our own lives can reflect God’s goodness, and we can be God’s instruments in bringing his goodness and gifts to others.

There are so many ways that we can do this! Truth be told, modern technology and modern means of communication have probably given us more ways of spreading the Gospel than any other age in history has had. I am personally familiar with at least a dozen programs, courses, and plans designed to carry out the spreading of the Good News. I’ve also got a number of apps on my phone designed to make me a better disciple, and there are many more where those came from. Yes, there is no lack of ideas, initiatives, and programs to help us.

And yet, in our second reading this weekend St. Peter will summarize Jesus’ mission by simply saying, “He went about doing good” (Acts 10:38).Wow, you and I can do that! Go about doing good! That’s a plan of action we can all get on board with. I know, St. Peter added that Jesus healed all those oppressed by the devil, and we cannot do that by our own power; but still, to go about doing good seems like a great place for us to start in our efforts to live the Gospel and share it with others.

For me, this means charity above all: allowing the Lord to guide my thoughts, words, and actions, so that they will truly reflect the Lord’s goodness and unconditional love for all. It also means integrity, putting into practice all the teachings of the Gospel.And it means having a close, personal, loving relationship with the Lord. This simple plan will take me a long way on the path towards being a saint, and it will enable me to help others along that path as well.

Blessings,

Fr. Philip