In today's Gospel reading God's plan of salvation is being fulfilled. After years of preparation, John the Baptist, the last of the prophets, has the privilege of pointing out Jesus as the Lamb of God, the One who would take away the sins of the world.

John was faithful to his own mission. He was sent to baptize with water and prepare the way of the Lord. When Jesus came to John for baptism, John saw the Spirit in the form of a dove come down on Jesus. He recognized Him as the One who would baptize with the Holy Spirit. John is now able to step back and lead people to the One who is greater than he, the One who would not only restore Israel but would be a light to the whole world.

We have been baptized with the Holy Spirit. We have also been called and chosen by God. We, like John, have this prophetic call to proclaim the good news of Jesus. This is our privilege as Christians. We can do this especially by the witness of our own lives. Today is a good day to reflect on our own baptism and to remember the people in our lives who led us to recognize Jesus and to follow Him.