January 13th Reflection by Bill Lynch

Baptism of Our Lord 
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 (NRSV)
The baptism of Jesus 

As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire." ...

Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased."

Reflection
Larry was a bit of a wild child. Even as he was growing up he seemed to go against the grain. In school there was always one detention after another. The teachers said he was acting out. Why, no one could ever understand. Larry came from a family that loved him and cared for him fully.

Larry grew to be a large man, strong and healthy. His huge muscles along with his six foot four frame, made his presence known in any place. Larry had out-grown that wild child of his youth and was now a very thoughtful and loving man. Although still single, the women came to love Larry.

Larry did not grow up in a home that went to any kind of church. So, the Wednesday before Larry went on a date with his new found girl, Mary, Larry was told that he would have to attend the Wednesday service together with her before they could have their date on Friday evening. Larry thought that wouldn't be a big deal at all. So, off Mary and Larry went on Wednesday.

That was the beginning of a new life for Larry. A new life not only with the love of his life Mary, but also a new life with another love of his life. And so it took place, that Larry, one Sunday decided to be baptized with Mary at his side. Big ol' Larry had realized that he was a child once again. A child of God, a brother of Jesus and a fellow disciple in Christ with the Church.

Larry was baptized that day and a new prayer life had begun. A prayer life that would lead Larry to live in the Church and live for God. Larry loved Mary and God. Larry was a new born child of God.

Prayer
Lord, take us as we are and use us as you will... today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen