We celebrate the Baptism of the Lord this weekend. I have been reflecting on baptism, particularly my own daughter’s baptism. It was such a joyous time as we finally could celebrate this sacrament with our parish family. As part of the Rite of Baptism we (and all parents and godparents) are asked, “do you clearly understand what you are undertaking?”  and we all respond yes…. but do we really? To sit and ponder what is happening in the sacrament of baptism and what it means is huge! In this sacrament we become a beloved child of God, and our parents and godparents promise to help us live out that promise. In other words, I promise to reflect God’s unconditional love, be the first teacher of that love, and help her grow and know His love. That is not a small promise!

In baptism we are surrounded and immersed in God’s love. A book I am re-reading talks about being reminded of the sacraments in ordinary things. I imagine being reminded of baptism in baths or showers. How can we be reminded that we are engulfed and surrounded by His love, and He makes all things new? Jesus hears in baptism “You are my beloved; with you I am well pleased.” How do we fully embody and believe that? We are fully and completely loved, and He is pleased with us. We don’t have to earn that love but are commissioned to go out and share it with others. May you be reminded of who you are this week, His beloved child!