Readings for January 12, 2020 — The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7; Psalm 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10; Acts 10:34-38; Matthew 3:13-17
Suggested Reflection Questions:
- In the first reading, the Prophet Isaiah speaks of a “servant” of God who will be gentle and meek, but will restore justice to the world. Why do you think that God would want a Messiah who is quiet and humble, rather than physically strong and powerful? Can you think of some examples of people who brought about justice in a peaceful manner?
- Peter says that Jesus could begin his mission of spreading peace because he had been baptized and God was with him. What stories have you heard about your own Baptism? In what ways are you called to be a missionary of God?
- In the Gospel according to Matthew, John the Baptist doesn’t understand why Jesus would want to be baptized by him. How do Jesus’ actions fulfill Isaiah’s prophecy? What does this dialogue between Jesus and John the Baptist reveal about Jesus?
