This past Sunday we celebrated the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord. by John the Baptizer. Why was this a significant moment in the life of Jesus? First of all, it was the inauguration of Jesus' public ministry. As such, Jesus wanted to make a public statement of his commitment to do the Father's will as the Messiah. Even though John's baptism was a demonstration of repentance for sins and a preparation to receive the Messiah, Jesus was sinless. The Father validated Jesus' yes in two ways. First, he publicly affirmed that Jesus was his beloved Son in whom he was pleased. Secondly, Jesus, in his humanity, received a fresh outpouring of the anointing of the Holy Spirit for ministry. This event in Jesus' life was a pivotal moment which he recalled throughout his ministry. To know in his humanity that he was the Beloved of the Father sustained Jesus in difficult moments. How important is our baptism to us? Do we know our baptismal date? Do we celebrate this spiritual birthday as well as our natural birthday?