Clergy Notes — January 11, 2026

The Baptism of Jesus – like the visit of the Magi to the Christ child – is an epiphany; a moment when God breaks through and self-reveals to humanity. It is only through God’s intervention that humans are able to see and hear the truth: that this is the Word made flesh; the beloved second person of the Trinity; Emmanuel, God with us. The Dove; the Voice; the Word: all revealed in ways our mortal senses can perceive, though it is our hearts that must respond.

And how do we respond? When our own Creator gives up everything to become flesh for us, what can we do but give everything we have in return?

We may be tempted to hold back, believing that if we do not have perfect lives or perfect piety, or many riches or talents to contribute, we shouldn’t bother.

But God doesn’t want or need our very best. God wants ALL of us; the messy and the awful and the embarrassing — as well as the best. God takes our bad decisions and fumbling attempts to grasp for control, and transforms them into something life-giving. God takes our hurts and transforms them into healing for others. God takes our brokenness and transforms it into an expanded wholeness. God takes the meagre scraps of our lives and transforms them into abundance.

May we be encouraged anew to give all of ourselves to the One who gives all to us in love.

Mother Amanda

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