The Liturgy last week revealed the mystery of God’s plan—that in Jesus all peoples, symbolized by the Magi, have been made “coheirs” to the blessings promised to Israel. This week, we’re shown how we claim our inheritance.

Jesus doesn’t submit to John’s baptism as a sinner in need of purification. He humbles Himself to pass through Jordan’s waters in order to lead a new “exodus”—opening up the promised land of heaven so that all peoples can hear the words pronounced over Jesus today, words once reserved only for Israel and its king: that each of us is a beloved son or daughter of God.

Jesus is the chosen servant Isaiah prophesied in today’s First Reading, anointed with the Spirit to make things right and just on earth. God put His Spirit upon Jesus to make Him “a covenant of the people,” the liberator of the captives, the light to the nations. Jesus, today’s Second Reading tells us, is the One long expected in Israel, “anointed . . . with the Holy Spirit and power.” The word messiah means “one anointed” with God’s Spirit. As in 2nd Samuel 23:1-17 we see that King David was “the anointed of the God of Jacob.” The prophets taught Israel to await a royal offshoot of David, upon whom the Spirit would rest.

That’s why the crowds are so anxious at the start of today’s Gospel. But it isn’t John they’re looking for. God confirms with His own voice what the angel earlier told Mary: Jesus is the Son of the Most High, come to claim the throne of David forever.

The Lord Jesus is ever ready to renew and refashion us in his likeness through the gift and working of the Holy Spirit—and he anoints us for mission as ambassadors of his kingdom of righteousness, peace, and joy. We are called to be the “light” and “salt” of his kingdom that radiate the beauty and aroma of his mercy and goodness to those around us. The Lord Jesus wants his love and truth to shine through us that many others may find new life, freedom, and joy in the Holy Spirit. Ask the Lord Jesus to fill us with his Holy Spirit that we may radiate the joy of the Gospel to those around us.

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, fill me with your Holy Spirit and with the fire of your love and goodness. May I always find joy and delight in seeking to please you in doing your will just as you have delighted in the joy of pleasing your Father and doing his will. Help me to do the Heavenly Father’s will in my daily life and be true and faithful to you always. Amen.

Love and prayers,

Fr. Charley