The Christmas Season ends with this dramatic scene in the River Jordan: John Baptizes Jesus, the heavens open, a dove hovers over Jesus and a booming voice from heaven utters both an affirmation and a clear manifestation of Jesus' identity: "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matt 3: 17). Whereas the Nativity and the Epiphany emphasize the humanity of Jesus, his divinity is clearly evident in this "theophany" (manifestation of God). The extent of the Incarnation becomes all encompassing as we acknowledge that the Son of GOD took on human nature to be one with us in all things, save sin. We have a Brother who understands, supports and encourages us, while at the same time being the God who saves us. He is the ultimate light illuminating the darkness, the One who sweetens the bitter waters of our sinfulness. Our own baptisms have given us a share in his life, and made us part of the Divine Family. This is OUR day to celebrate our own baptisms and to hear God say to us, "This is my beloved son (daughter), in whom I am well pleased." Interestingly enough for Marists, this is the day in 1863 when our Constitutions were approved by Pope Pius IX, an affirmation for the Marist Brothers, and our colleagues, that we are God's sons and daughters in whom he is well-pleased. Let us rejoice in this privilege and the mission which flows from it.
Bro. Rene
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