This Sunday we mark the baptism of Jesus (as well as sneaking in the Feast of the Epiphany).

The sacrament of baptism can take place at any time, but it is highly encouraged, if at all possible, to be on a Sunday morning at the principal service of a church community. This is because baptism is just as much a communal as an individual act.

However, there are some days, some special feasts and festivals, that are even more preferred, that are even more particularly appropriate for baptisms. I am sure that you will not be surprised when I inform you that this Sunday, the Sunday of the baptism of Jesus, is one of those days.

And so, on the baptism of Jesus, or any of these even more particularly appropriate days, even if we don’t have any baptisms, we often renew and remember our baptismal promises, and take the opportunity to reflect on the significance and meaning of this sacred act.  

Therefore, let us remember together, that baptism is not a magic spell or charm.

It is a sign.

A sign that God has loved and claimed us.

A sign that because God has come into the world, the world, and we along with it, will never be the same.

Remember that in our baptisms, we share in the baptism of Jesus, his life and death and life again, and so the words, “This is my beloved Son” are for us too, are for you too. The voice from heaven is saying to you, ‘this is my beloved son.’ “This is my beloved daughter.” “This is my beloved child.”

Remember, my friends.

Remember your baptism.

Remember your absolute belovedness in the sight of God our Maker.

Thanks be to God!


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