GOSPEL READING Mk 1:7-11
Jesus receives Baptism before he begins his public ministry. His life until then has been a life in the family or a life that has not been seen by the public. Though he does not need to be baptized yet he accepts it to show the people that he begins his public ministry through this. He is baptized by John the Baptist.
The external sign of receiving the baptism from the hands of John reveals that he is also accepted and recognized by the Father. He hears the voice from the heavens telling him that he is the beloved son of the Father and this recognition was supported by the sending of the Holy Spirit. It is this that makes the Baptism of Jesus real and makes him ready for his public ministry.
