Living as God’s Beloved

Through baptism, God calls us to reflect Jesus’ selfless, unconditional love. We are beloved children of God, nourished by the Eucharist and strengthened by grace. Embrace daily opportunities to serve, forgive, and bring hope, living boldly as Christ’s hands and feet.

Author

Carlos Rodriguez
January 10, 2025

The Gospel for Sunday, January 12, describes Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan (Luke 3:15-16, 21-22). The crowd, filled with hope and expectation, wonders if John the Baptist might be the Messiah. Then, Jesus humbly joins the sinners in the river. As he is baptized, the heavens open, and the Spirit descends like a dove while the Father declares, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” How often do we long to hear words like these—to feel seen, loved, and chosen?

In this moment, Jesus fully embraces his mission of salvation. His baptism is a deep act of humility, standing in solidarity with us. Baptism is the beginning of our identity as God’s beloved children. Yet, it’s easy to forget this truth amid doubt, distraction, or fear. But the Father’s words to Jesus echo for us, too: “You are loved. You are mine.”

Isaiah reminds us that God is a shepherd who tenderly leads and comforts his people (Isaiah 40:11). Paul’s letter to Titus highlights how God’s grace saves us and strengthens us to live lives of goodness and love (Titus 2:11-12). Together, these readings reassure us of God’s constant presence, guiding and equipping us for our mission as his people.

Our mission gains deeper meaning when we embrace being Eucharistic people. Nourished by the Body and Blood of Christ, we are sent to serve, love, and heal. We are invited to reflect Jesus’ agape—selfless, unconditional love—through daily acts of kindness, forgiveness, and justice, bringing hope and healing to others.

How can you embody this mission today? Forgive someone who has hurt you, practice gratitude for the blessings in your life, or reach out to someone in need with kindness and support. We are called to live selfless, unconditional love through baptism, just as Jesus did. This love doesn’t require dramatic sacrifices but invites us to reflect Christ’s compassion in our everyday moments. 

The Eucharist strengthens us for this mission, nourishing us with Christ’s living presence so we can be his hands and feet in the world. Let it renew your heart this week and inspire you to fulfill your baptismal call to love boldly and selflessly.

Let us pray: Loving Father, thank you for calling me your beloved. Nourish me through the Eucharist and guide me to live in your presence in the world. Help me to share your love with others and to follow you faithfully. Amen.