When John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him, he said; Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. With these words, John the Baptist affirmed the redemptive Sacrifice Christ would make for the salvation of all people. Christ, the Lamb of God had no need of repentance but he came to be baptised along with sinners so as to identify with sinful humanity.

John the Baptist testified that the Spirit came to rest on Christ. The descent of the Holy Spirit for John and for us confirms that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God anointed by the Holy Spirit.

Through our baptism, we have been called to be disciples of Jesus, each of us chosen to continue the saving work which Christ began. On the day of our baptism, on that grace filled day, the seed of God’s life was planted within us, the love of God growing, maturing and blossoming. His spirit at work within the depths of our hearts.

Today let us pray for a greater insight into our role in Christs mission. Often, we can think that we are not worthy to carry out this work, but remember God certainly works through ordinary people like ourselves, the example we show in our everyday lives clears the way for Christ in others who we encounter on our pilgrimage journey in this life.

When Parents or Godparents light the baptismal candle from the Easter Candle at the Baptism ceremony, receiving the light of Christ; the Priest or the Deacon pray the words; that the newly baptised have been enlightened by Christ, that they are to walk always as children of the light, and may they keep the flame of faith alive in their hearts.

We pray that God may watch over, guard and protect us throughout our lives and that we will walk always by the light of Faith, following Christ and rejoicing in his spirit.

Let us encourage and pray for each other and for all of God’s children. God bless you all.

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Deacon Tony.