Rector’s Message (Sunday, January 11, 2026)

Rector’s Message

Today is the first Sunday after Epiphany. On this day the church celebrates the baptism of our Lord. Today is also known as renewal Sunday, as it presents an opportunity to renew our baptismal or marriage covenant. The Collect for today is a plea for God to fill us with boldness to continually proclaim that Jesus is Lord of all.

In the first reading, a servant of the Lord is chosen to bring God’s justice to the nations. The servant is charged to bring the blind and freedom to the captives. The Lord also told to the servant that the name of the Lord is stamped on it, therefore all that the Lord declared will be accomplished.

In the second reading, Peter shares with the Gentiles his understanding of the coming of Christ. He made it clear that God is not partial which is why Jesus came for all people. Jesus went forth into all regions to proclaim the good news of Salvation. All who believe this message and accept Jesus as the Holy One sent from God would receive the gift that Christ brings. In the gospel reading, Jesus goes to John to be baptized. He charges the prophet to baptize Him as a sign of humility. After he was baptized the Holy Spirit shone upon him and a voice from heaven confirmed Him as the Holy One sent from God.

Jesus journeys to Galilee, like all the others who would have come to hear and be baptized by John. When Jesus showed up and requested to be baptized, John immediately declined the request. The prophet says he was unworthy to carry out this act as he was only there to serve as the forerunner. Jesus’ response acknowledged the truth of John’s statement, but went on to permit him to carry out this act of God.

John acted in obedience and having baptized Jesus, the Holy Spirit came and shone on Him. The voice from heaven declared that this was the Son of God who would now show that the Kingdom of God was on earth. It showed God’s approval of Jesus and the ministry He would undertake.

The baptism of Jesus was to show his humility, and that Jesus was uniting Himself with those for whom he came. Jesus consciously submitted Himself to those He came to save as an example of what the attitude should be towards God’s kingdom. Through Jesus the kingdom of God would become a reality bringing the good news of forgiveness to all people.

We extend a warm welcome to all our visitors worshipping with us today, especially The Queen’s School family, celebrating founder’s day.