The Message of Humility:

Despite John the Baptist's deterrence, Jesus, empowered to baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit, humbly walked down to the Jordan River and stood a step below John with utmost decency and gentleness. He launched the message of humility, emphasizing that without it, the kingdom of heaven remains elusive, as stated in Scripture:

'Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.' (Matthew 5:3-4)

Jesus' Lesson:

Jesus, as the Son of God, demonstrated decency, gentleness, and humility through His willingness to undergo baptism. This serves as a lesson to all seeking baptism, encouraging them to emulate His kindness and humility.

Don't we vow to embody humility through baptism? Or do we mistakenly assume that baptism guarantees the kingdom of God? Let there be no confusion, as Scripture reminds us:

"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." (Luke 6:36-38)

Jesus' baptism teaches us to become compassionate like our Heavenly Father.

Kind and Humble Living:

Jesus, empowered to baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit, sets an unparalleled example of kindness and humility for those undergoing the 'Baptism of Water'. The question remains: Do we uphold the vow of kindness and humility taken during our baptism?

Kindness and humility please the Lord God, as written in Scripture: 'The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.' (John 8:29)

We, the baptized, must introspect and sincerely ask ourselves: Do we consistently do what pleases our Lord God? Do we truly follow Lord Jesus? We shall not forget that Jesus didn't require baptism, yet He underwent it to set an extraordinary example of a kind and humble life.

To be Continued…..

==> Stay tuned for our next article, where we'll uncover how 'Eight Aspects of the Sacrament of Baptism' that transforms our faith journey.

Amen!

Praise be to God, Thanks be to God.

Not being Unrighteous is Religion!!

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Peace to the whole world!!