"Along both banks of the river, fruit trees of every kind shall grow; their leaves shall not fade, nor their fruit fail."
Ezekiel 47:12
Even though it was way back in March 1995, I still remember clearly being on the banks for the Jordan River. As we approached the shore, I thought of Jesus and John. "John tried to prevent him, saying 'I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?'" We were going down to renew our baptismal promises and collect some water. I was surprised to see so many people there including several in white gowns receiving their baptism by immersion. (The water was cold.) I remember thinking, Wow, 2000 years later and the river of baptism still flows in abundance!
This feast day of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica represents the Church's worldwide mission as the living waters for all people! Take some time today to think about your baptism and the power and gift that God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit has given to you! Let the waters flow throughout your life.
Lord, may the graces of my baptism wash over me anew every day!
Reflection by:
Fr. Mike Muhr
Did You Know...
Fr. Michael Muhr is Director of Ministry to Priests. Fr. Muhr served as a spiritual director and co-taught courses in pastoral ministry for 14 years at St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary in Boynton Beach, Florida.
