The Baptism of the Lord

For the love of God is this, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome, for whoever is begotten by God conquers the world. And the victory that conquers the world is our faith. Who indeed is the victor over the world but the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

If we love God, then we will do everything within our power to keep His commandments. We will mortify our bodies, discipline our minds, and align our wills with His Will. We will do good and avoid evil, practice virtue and rid ourselves of vice. We will take up our crosses and bear them without complaint. We shall walk in the footsteps of Christ and show compassion even in the midst of our sufferings. We shall make ourselves into living sacrifices to the Lord without feeling burdened. We shall stand firm in our faith and be confident in our God. We shall trust that God will lead us to victory over death and sin and lead us triumphantly and joyfully into the Kingdom of Heaven.

Are we doing everything we can to keep God’s commandments? Are we willing to mortify ourselves in order to be more faithful to God’ Will? How can we let go and let God conquer our hearts?

O Lord, we surrender our hearts to you so that you might rule over us in all things.

Amen.