The Baptism of Fire

Gospel Thoughts*

*Christmas Season : C Cycle*

*Baptism of the Lord*

*GOSPEL -  Lk 3:15-16, 21-22*

*FIRST READING - Is 42:1-4, 6-7*

*SECOND READING Acts 10:34-38*

*The Baptism of Fire*

*He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire*

*1) Why the Baptism of Fire*

First of all, Fire is an important element. Because Fire has some special characteristics, which help us understand the relevance of fire in the Baptism

First of all Fire burns 

Secondly fire transforms or changes 

Thirdly fire also gives light and dispels the darkness

Fire has the quality of destroying the unwanted things 

Fire gives the warmth 

In simple words, we can't live without fire 

*2) The Fire in the Baptism*

The fire in the Baptism has the following effects

Fire of Baptism burns all that unwanted things in ones life 

The fire of Baptism transforms the sins into Hominess

The fire of Baptism dispels the darkness of sin, anxiety, pride, worries and tensions 

The fire of Baptism, destroys all that is sinful and unwanted things

The fire of Baptism cleanses the impurity of original sin by burung it completely

The fire of Baptism, ultimately destroys all that is evil in us and gives helps us to grow in holiness 

*3) Various elements of the fire of Baptism*

The Fire of Love 

The fire of Sacrifice

The fire of service

The fire of humility

The fire of forgiveness

The fire of simplicity

The fire of genuineness

The fire of generosity

The fire of sharing 

The fire of smile

The fire of cheerfulness and gratitude

When the fire of Baptism, makes us to burn with these things all that is sinful in us is burnt and good things will grown. 

*4) Where is the Fire of Baptism in my life?*

When I was given the Baptism, I was Baptistied with the above aspects of the fire

But the question is, how is the condition of this Fire? 

Is it still burning in my life? 

Is it still working to destroy the bad things in me? 

Is it still inspiring me to practice the virtues of humility, sincerity, sharing and generosity?

Is the fire of Baptism still warm in me?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*