“I tell you the truth: Among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” –Matthew 11:11. A person who knew his mission and become the God-ordained messenger proclaiming the coming of Jesus Christ; that is how John the Baptist was recognized. These personalities made him the greatest man.
Through the talents and skills given by the Almighty Father, we are challenged to fulfill our responsibility and task here on earth. Let’s focus on the mission given by God and at the end of every accomplishment, there will be a happiness we haven’t felt before.
Baptism is a symbol of repentance wherein we turn away our sins and become son of God as a preparation to the coming of the Messiah. This is the first sacrament we receive by the use of water just like what John the Baptist used in his significant ministry: The Baptism of Jesus at Jordan River. At the same time, he confidently challenged Herod to atone.
Water is one of the things present during baptism. The celebration of the Feast of St. John the Baptist in the Philippines was highly compose of mud and water. People pour water on each other while some people was covered with banana leaves and mud. This is just their way to honor and venerate their patron saint.
At the end of celebration, it is also a challenge for us to repent and ask for God’s forgiveness. We may commit mistakes but the important thing is we know how to turn back to God.
Today that we commemorate the nativity of St. John the Baptist, may we continue to look at him as a model as we face our daily life. (Lester de Castro)
