Church Windows – The Baptism of Jesus

 January 18, 2018

A voice whispers late in the night, “You are my beloved child, in you I am well pleased.” Words God spoke to his Son thousands of years ago. Words God continues to speak to each of us if we but have ears to hear.

In this stained glass window, we see Jesus, garbed in a white robe, bowing before John the Baptist. John, in Matthew’s gospel, protests that it is Jesus who should be baptizing him, not the other way around. But even then, Jesus chose the mode of a servant, accepting baptism at the hand of John. There is beautiful scenery in the background, trees and mountains, and above all God’s spirit.

With the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord, the Christmas season formally comes to an end in the Roman Catholic Church. It ends as it begins, with words of promise. A son was born to us and now that son has reached full growth. Time to begin his ministry among us, but first he receives words of affirmation from his Father, words designed to support him throughout the trials of his life.

In our baptism we were claimed for Christ. We are his, God’s beloved children. As such we have a share in his mission. But God doesn’t send us out into the world unarmed. We are armed with God’s love; affirmed by God’s words spoken to each of us.

If only we have ears to hear!

Take a moment today and allow God’s word to speak to your heart.

And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”               Matthew 3:16-17

 

This post is part of a series of reflections on St. John’s church windows.   click here to follow blog

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