Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

One day, during a General Audience in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis asked the pilgrims a question. He said, “Who knows the date of their Baptism? Raise your hand!”  Only a few could raise their hands. He continued, “Allow me to give a piece of advice. More than advice, some homework. Search for the date of your Baptism, that beautiful date, … that happy date, … because it is a feast day, … a day for celebration.”  

Three wonderful things happen at Baptism. First, our sins are washed away; second, we become partakers of God’s divine nature; and third, we make a commitment to renounce sin and Satan, with all his works and pomps.

We celebrate our birthdays, but the day of baptism is a greater cause for celebration. How much greater? Imagine the difference between inheriting the whole earth on the day you were born, compared to inheriting the entire universe, with all the planets and stars in all the galaxies of the whole universe on the day you were born if that was possible. But possessing the entire universe would be a grain of sand compared to sharing in God’s infinite divine nature, to do what God can do. That is our destiny, our great hope, our cause for joy and celebration!

Why was Jesus baptized?  He didn’t need the first gift of Baptism, to be washed clean from sins, because he had no sins.  He didn’t need the second gift of Baptism, to become a partaker in God’s nature because he was already God.  But Jesus did share in the third grace of Baptism, because he made a commitment to overthrow Satan and all his works by giving up his own life to save us.  

Johann Goethe tells about the happiness of those who are faithful to their Baptismal vows.  He writes, “Until one is committed to a task or inspiration, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back.   One elementary truth … is this: the moment you definitely commit yourself, then Providence moves in.  All sorts of things happen to help you that would never otherwise have occurred, unless you are committed to act.  A whole stream of events issues from that decision, which you could not have dreamed would come your way. Begin.  Boldness has power in it.  Begin now.”

Pope Francis concluded his address by saying: “Don’t forget your homework find the date of your Baptism. You know the date of your birth, know also the date of your Baptism, because it is a great feast day!”  It is good to celebrate birthdays.  It is even better to celebrate the day of Baptism with thanksgiving.