The first action of Jesus after His baptism was: "He saw" (Mk 1:10). When Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River by John, "immediately on coming up out of the water He saw" the sky split and the Spirit descend on Him (Mk 1:10). Before Cornelius and his household received the Holy Spirit, Peter began preaching to them in "these words; 'I begin to see' " (Acts 10:34). It is prophesied that the Messiah upon Whom God's Spirit rests will "open the eyes of the blind" (Is 42:7).

Today's celebration of the baptism of Jesus is associated with seeing God, others, and ourselves in a new way. After receiving the graces of this last day in the Christmas season, we will "no longer know Him by" our old standards (2 Cor 5:16). We will see God not as a force or a thing or even as only a person; we will see Him as our own Father Who loves us (and even likes us) (Mk 1:11). This will transform the way we see ourselves. We will truly believe we are chosen, beloved, royal, priestly, and holy (see 1 Pt 2:9). Then we will see other people as God sees them. We will love our neighbors as ourselves (Mt 22:39). We will "esteem the person of every" human being (1 Pt 2:17).

On this last day of the Christmas season, renew your baptismal promises, open your eyes, and receive the Spirit.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, June 27, 2012

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