John answered them all, “I baptize you with water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire."

~Luke 3:16

The Heavens are Open!

"At Jesus’ baptism 'the heavens were opened’ -- the heavens that Adam’s sin had closed… “

Catechism of the Catholic Church #536

This weekend we celebrate Jesus’ baptism. Matthew, Mark, and Luke all tell us that the heavens were opened at Jesus’ baptism (Mt 3:16, Mk 1:10, Lk 3:21). As we know from the Lord’s prayer, heaven is the place where God dwells and where His will is done (See Mt. 6:9-10). It is where angels and saints live with God. Heaven is the fulfillment of our deepest longings and desires. It is the place of ultimate joy (see CCC 1024).

And at Jesus’ baptism, the heavens are opened. Jesus comes up out of the water and ultimate joy, happiness, fulfillment, angels, saints, and God Himself are made available to us. Heaven is open for business.

The barrier between God and us that Adam’s sin had created has been destroyed in Jesus. It is easy to forget that Scripture never says that the heavens were closed again. They remain...

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Mealtime Moments...

Remember, a weekly meaningful meal is a key discipleship skill. You can even make them more meaningful by having a "faith talk" around the table. Here is a gentle starter question to get the ball rolling:

What is something you are obsessed with?

This is a great question because you can follow up with lots of questions about what they are obsessed with. I guarantee they’ll have plenty to talk about when it comes to what they geek out on.

And for that "faith talk"...

based on this weekend's readings

TAKE TIME TO CHAT

John was a powerful preacher filled with the Spirit of God. Share a time when you've met someone that has inspired your faith.

God sent John the Baptist to prepare the people for his coming. If Jesus were coming to your house today, what would you do to get ready to receive him?

What does it mean to be baptized with the Holy Spirit and fire? What makes baptism so special?

... or you can just use these questions at a meal or any time for a "faith walk"!

Adult Question: Do you think that God was "well pleased" by your actions in recent weeks? Why?
Child Question: What good thing could you do this week that would be pleasing to God?