Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Mark 1, 7-11
This is what John the Baptist proclaimed:
“One mightier than I is coming after me.
I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals.
I have baptized you with water;
he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee
and was baptized in the Jordan by John.
On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open
and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him.
And a voice came from the heavens,
“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
The Symbols of Baptism
Since we are preparing for the Feast of Jesus’s Baptism, let’s reflect on the symbols of baptism.
1. Water. Water is the primary symbol of baptism. It’s a symbol of divine life, grace, cleansing, new birth, growth, and deliverance. With water, God cleanses us, purifies us, and gives us life in Christ. Beyond any mistake you make, God always offers purification, because with Him your life is worthy and clean. You have to be a clean person at heart; do not let the debris of life stick to your heart.
2. Oil. Oil is also a symbol of baptism, and two kinds are used that have been blessed by the bishop. The Oil of the Catechumens is used after the prayer of exorcism and applied to the chest. It represents salvation as well as the strength and power that come from Christ our savior. Your soul becomes God’s property. Then, after the water has been poured, Sacred Chrism is used to anoint the crown of the head, and it reminds you that you are priest, prophet and king. It represents participation in the priesthood of Christ, membership in the body of Christ and a share in eternal life. This shows that you are very important and worthy because you are God’s child. So, take care of your dignity, your essence: you are God’s child.
3. White baptismal garment. It is an outward sign of the person’s Christian dignity. It also signifies that the person has become a new creation and has been clothed with Christ. It is a very important sign that marks your purity and should make you aware that you must always be prepared for Christ’s coming. Whoever sees you in life should see Christ through the way you live.
