The Baptism of the Lord - Cycle C
January 13, 2013
Click here for USCCB readings
Opening Prayer
First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7
Psalm: 29:1-4, 9-10
Second Reading: Acts 10:34-38
Gospel Reading: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22
- The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord marks the beginning of the liturgical season of Ordinary Time. We are now in the “C” cycle of readings, which means that for the remainder of this year (until next Advent season) our Sunday Gospels will be taken mostly from the Gospel of Luke.
- In this Sunday’s Gospel, we meet John the Baptist, who was sent as a
precursor (or herald) of the Messiah, but who had developed a popular following by those who wondered if he might be the long anticipated Jewish Messiah. John, however, makes it clear he is not (see John 1:6-8, 19-28 and John 3:25-30)
- (Verses 17-20, omitted from this Sunday’s reading, describe John’s anticipatory ministry as one of calling the people to repentance by readying themselves for the coming of the Messiah, and also describe how John’s ministry came to an end.
- When Jesus is baptized by John at the beginning of his public life, Jesus’ divinity is revealed and he is anointed for his mission in visible and audible signs.
QUESTIONS:
- Why do the people confuse John with Christ (verse 15; John 1:19-28)? By contrast, how does John differentiate himself and his ministry? How can you emulate John’s attitude in verse 16?
- Why was it necessary for Jesus to be baptized (Matthew 3:13-15; Mark 10:35-39; Luke 12:49- 50; CCC 536)?
- Why did God choose this time to announce the presence of his Son (Luke 3:16-18; Acts 10:38)? Why was it necessary for that announcement to be audible (John 11:41-42)? How was this announcement pre-announced in the Old Testament (see First Reading)? How was it remembered later in the early Church (see Second Reading)?
- How significant is it that Jesus is praying right after his baptism and before the Spirit alights on him (verse 21. See New American Bible note on verses 21-22 and CCC 2600)?
- Do you remember to pray at important times in your life?
Catechism of the Catholic Church: §§ 536, 694, 696, 701, 2600
Prayer is the best weapon we possess, the key that opens the heart of God. -St. Pio of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio)