May we too be called beloved

January 11, 2026

feast of the baptism of the lord
First ReadingIsaiah 42:1-4, 6-7
PsalmPsalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 9-10
Second ReadingActs 10:34-38
Gospel ReadingMatthew 3:13-17

On the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we encounter a Messiah who enters the waters not to be cleansed, but to stand with humanity. It is a quiet moment, yet heaven opens—and God speaks.

Hibla: The Message of the Readings

Together, the readings show us a God who is both mighty and meek—strong enough to command creation, yet gentle enough to handle what is fragile.

Hugot: Points to Ponder

Jesus did not need baptism. He had nothing to repent for, nothing to prove. And yet, He submitted Himself fully to the Father’s will. He did not take shortcuts. He did not exempt Himself. He entered the waters alongside sinners and allowed Himself to be identified with them.

Hamon: The Challenge

Today, we are invited to step into the water with Jesus—not to be perfect, but to be present. To believe that even in our fragility, heaven can still open, and we too can be called beloved.