the greatest day of our lives
"Are you not aware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death?" —Romans 6:3
Pope John Paul II has taught: "It is no exaggeration to say that the entire existence of the lay faithful has as its purpose to lead a person to a knowledge of the radical newness of the Christian life that comes from Baptism" (Lay Members of Christ's Faithful People, 10). We must be baptized to be saved (see Mk 16:16), and then we must devote every day of the rest of our lives to become more and more aware of the ramifications of our Baptisms. In the same document, Pope John Paul II taught that we must "grasp and live the immense, extraordinary richness and responsibility received at Baptism" (61).
Let us make the following examination of conscience:
- In the last year, how have I lived my Baptism better?
- How is my Baptism affecting my relationships?
- Do I recognize other baptized people as my brothers and sisters in Christ?
- How is my Baptism affecting the way I do my job?
- Is my baptismal dignity and identity as God's child more secure and developed?
- Since I renewed my baptismal promises at the beginning of Easter, have I grown in living my Baptism?
Baptism was the first day of our life in Christ, and it is the greatest day of our lives. Let us live accordingly.
Prayer: Father, I reject Satan and all his works and promises. I believe with all my heart in You, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.
Promise: "He who brings himself to nought for Me discovers who he is." —Mt 10:39
Praise: Praise God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit in Whom we are baptized forever!
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tapes on Baptismal Promises on audio AV 83-1, AV 83-3, AV 84-1, AV 84-3 or video series starting with V-83.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, December 20, 2004
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