Baptism: THE SOURCE OF GOD'S BLESSINGS

“On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, ‘You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.’” The Father baptized and blessed Jesus before one moment of ministry: before He turned water into wine; healed one sick person; broke one piece of bread; took one step toward Golgotha. It was the blessing, the imparting of being beloved, which strengthened Jesus for His ministry of healing and reconciliation.

With the Sacrament of Baptism, we hear the words of blessing: “Through baptism may this child become one of God’s own beloved sons and daughters.” Baptism blesses before a child can walk or talk. This blessing, given without merit, is a pure gift from our Creator, who claims each us as beloved—by our mere presence.

Knowing ourselves as beloved—being loved for who we are—empowers us to live as a source of God's blessing for others. Once blessed, we become a blessing for our families, our children, our grandchildren, our communities. This is what God intended. And knowing our worth, as created and beloved by God, is exactly what the world needs to heal during this time of division. We are blessed—to bless, we are loved—to love, we are forgiven—to forgive, we are healed—to heal. And, each time we receive Jesus in the Eucharist, we are sent to be His reconciling presence in our homes and in the world. Now, that's good news!

How will you help your children to know they are beloved?
How will you extend Christ's love in the world?

Naming Grace in the Domestic Church reflects on Scripture through the lens of a parent/grandparent. To connect with Mary Pedersen: www.marypedersen.com