“Why did Jesus, who is sinless, choose to be baptized? He steps into the muddy waters of our humanity, not becaue He needs cleansing, but because He chooses to stand where we stand. Scholars like William Barclay describe this moment as a turning point in Jesus’ life. It is a moment of decision, when He leaves behind the quiet years of Nazareth and embraces His mission. It is a moment of identification, when He stands with sinners rather than above them. It is a moment of approval, when the Father’s voice affirms Him as the Beloved Son. It is a moment of conviction, when He accepts the path of the Suffering Servant foretold by Isaiah — not the path of earthly power, but the path of the cross. And it is a moment of empowerment, when the Spirit descends upon Him, equipping Him to proclaim not a God of wrath and fire, but a Father rich in mercy and compassion.”
— Fr Jinto Thomas — 1/11/26