Encouragement

The heavens were opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove. (Matthew 3:16) 

A young man stands outside an apartment building ready to begin his new job in a city far from his family. His father is next to him. “I know you can do this,” he says. “You’re my son, and I’m proud of you. I’ll be available any time you need me. Keep in touch, and don’t forget who you are.” 

Did you know that Jesus had a similar experience? When he began his public life at his baptism, his Father opened the heavens and spoke words of encouragement to him: Jesus was his beloved Son, and he was both proud and well pleased to be his Father! 

Today as you celebrate Jesus’ baptism, know that God wants to open heaven for you just as he did for Jesus. He wants to speak encouragement to you when you take a new step in your life, just as he did for Jesus. Just as he sent the Spirit to his Son, so he gives the Spirit to you. Just as he proclaimed Jesus as his beloved Son, he tells you that you are his beloved as well. Just as he affirmed and encouraged Jesus at the start of his ministry, he has special blessings stored up for you when you approach a new chapter in your life. 

These new beginnings can be as big as taking religious vows or as small as starting another year as a catechist in your parish. Maybe you’re preparing for the birth of your first child or going back to work after decades of raising children. You may be moving or starting a new job. No matter what, God has words of encouragement for you. He wants you to know he is your Father, and he loves you. He wants you to be convinced that he is blessing you and has great things in store for you. He tells you that he is ready to help you in any way you need it. 

So let the Father open heaven for you today!

“Thank you, Father, for reminding me how precious I am to you and how much you have in store for me!”

from wau.org