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Baptism of the Lord
The baptism of Jesus we suppose
Brings our Christmas cycle to a close;
In Europe though, it is at Candle Mass,
When people all their lights and candles bless.
T'is when the virgin mother sweet and bright
And without spot is being purified,
(As child, the final feast astonished me,-
I saw for cleansing no necessity).
And Baptist John with water did baptize
The Lord, for he could not but recognize
One mightier than him, thus ill at ease
To baptize one he glimpsed in glory's sheath.
The Turning Point, He did identify
With humankind frail, lowly and prostrate,
Now did assume His mission, and thereby
Sealed the whole cosmos' destiny and fate.
He heard the voice- beheld the gentle dove
But could not fathom our Father's love;
The skies did open and the heavens smiled
In promise: - him or her too is my child.
This feast is filled with sacred mystery,
The Holy Spirit speaks the solemn word,
To Jesus is revealed His destiny,
And mission firm as Savior and as Lord.
Elizabeth Dandy
Feast of the Lord's Baptism
