The Baptism of the Lord – Feast
First reading – Isaiah 40:1-5,9-11
The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry and offers profound insight into His mission as the Good Shepherd, as reflected in the first reading from Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11. In this passage, the prophet proclaims the arrival of the Lord with great power, yet it is a power marked not by domination but by tender, compassionate care for His people. Jesus Christ is revealed as the shepherd who feeds His flock, gathering the vulnerable lambs in His arms and gently holding them close to His heart. He does not lead through coercion but through love, offering guidance and rest to those burdened or weary, especially the mother ewes, who symbolize the caretakers and nurturers among the faithful. This image of Christ as the divine shepherd encapsulates the paradox of His mission: though He comes in power, He conquers not through force but through mercy, humility, and love. His final victory is the restoration of all creation to God’s loving embrace, as He leads each soul toward the peace and rest that only He can provide. Through this lens, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord reminds us that Christ’s mission is not merely one of personal salvation but one of collective, tender guidance for His flock, making Him the shepherd par excellence. Let’s reflect: How can I open my heart to Christ as my shepherd, allowing His tender guidance to lead me through the challenges and burdens of my life toward the peace and rest He promises?
Don Giorgio