The Catechism of the Catholic Church states an important effect of Baptism in our lives. "Incorporated into Christ by Baptism, the person baptized is configured to Christ. Baptism seals the Christian with the indelible spiritual mark (character) of his belonging to Christ. No sin can erase this mark, even if sin prevents Baptism from bearing the fruits of salvation. Given once for all, Baptism cannot be repeated." # 1272

Once baptized we belong to Christ whether we acknowledge this relationship or not. We belong to Christ whether we die in him or not. By virtue of his death and resurrection we have been redeemed and reconciled. It has nothing to do with us. This indelible spiritual mark is a brand mark we carry from the moment of our baptism into all eternity. It can't be erased like a tattoo. Even if we would deny Christ or seek to be "unbaptized", we are still his redeemed. Because of this "branding" either we will be a sign of his glory in eternity or a sign of ridicule in the eternal fires of alienation. The best way to embrace this gift of God's love for us is to live as a son or daughter of God with gratitude and love. As one belonging to the Lord, we are to serve, not out of obligation, but out of joy for what we have been given, knowing without Jesus we are nothing. Reflect on this mystery and privilege.