A Message from Fr. Jay
Dear Friends,
With the celebration of the Baptism of our Lord, we conclude Christmastime. We all said ‘Yes’ to God’s will during this liturgical Christmas season.
Jesus said yes to God’s will to be born as a human being;
Mother Mary said yes to the angel Gabriel’s disturbing message;
Joseph said yes to God’s instructions received through dreams;
The Magi said yes in their own way and finally,
Jesus says Yes to public ministry when he entered river Jordan.
What motivated every one of them to say yes, was ‘the Father’s Love’.
With Jesus, God the Father confirms that directly with the words:
“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased”.
It is significant to note, that on only three occasions, the words “God the Father” are recorded in the Gospel. The first, is at the Baptism; the second, is at the Transfiguration and the third, is just before the Last Supper and the Passion, when Jesus is troubled (John 12:28). Among all these three statements from God the Father, the one at the Baptism is the most endearing one.
Let these reassuring words of God the Father, spoken at Jordan, ring out forcefully and firmly during this New Year to every one of us! Whenever we make the sign of the cross, which is the recalling of our baptism, we say yes to Him. Let our ‘yes’ be meaningful always. Please remember your Godparents on this special day, either living or deceased. Also, if you have Godchildren, remember a special way to keep them in your prayers today.
Please look for more upcoming details regarding the first-time parish “Father and Son Retreat”. This event in March is in support of fathers and teenage sons.
God Bless You,
Fr. Jay Raju
Reading 1: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7
Reading 2: Acts of the Apostles: 10:34-38
Gospel: Luke 3:15-16, 21-22
