The Baptism of Jesus is similar in purpose to our own. As Jesus was distinguished as the beloved Son in whom God is well pleased, so, too, are we. We share that same special favor with God and are brought into an intimate relationship with Him. Does this reality change how we feel about ourselves? It certainly does. Baptism forever changes us and calls us to the ministries of mercy and humility. God has formed each of us in our mother’s womb and asks us to be a light for all people. We carry this light humbly as we know who ultimately has a claim on us and to whom we belong. We then are called to live our lives in imitation of Christ and become incarnate vessels of mercy. Our world needs to be touched by compassion and only we can complete the task.