The baptism of the Lord is the last day of Christmas time and as we have spent so many days enjoying the celebrations of Jesus's birth, we now read about Jesus' baptism by John, a foreshadowing of His death, burial and resurrection.

Jesus did not need to be baptized as he was without sin, but it was part of his mission on earth to be so. He was identifying with others who were repenting as well as setting an example for His followers. It was also an announcement of the beginning of His ministry on earth.

 

It is interesting to note that John had prepared for this moment his whole life. He was obedient to the will of God and yet when Jesus asked John to baptize him, John resisted. But that resistance wasn't defiance, it was insecurity. John did not feel worthy to do this great task for Jesus.

 

I have heard people say that they don't feel right becoming an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist because they do not feel worthy enough. But, by doing so, isn't this helping to fulfill God's will? Jesus called John the greatest of all prophets and yet John felt inadequate to even untie Jesus's sandals. But, John did baptize Jesus. He did fulfill his duty to God. Don't let your feelings of inadequacy prevent you from doing God's will.