Back to Ordinary Time: A Reminder of Our Extraordinary Calling

Hey friends! As we step into Ordinary Time in our liturgical calendar, let’s take a moment to reflect on what this season truly means. It’s not “ordinary” in the sense of being plain or uneventful. Instead, it’s a time to recognize the holiness in our everyday lives—our joys, struggles, successes, and even our anxieties. Every single day is a gift from God, and every day is an opportunity to make it holy.

Last weekend, we celebrated the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord, which marked the end of the Christmas season. It’s a perfect time to think about our own baptism and what it means for us. Baptism isn’t just about becoming a member of the Church or a child of God (though those are beautiful truths!). It’s also about being incorporated into the priesthood of Jesus Christ.

Did you know that through baptism, we all share in Christ’s priesthood? This is called the “common priesthood,” and it’s a powerful reminder that we are all called to offer our lives—our work, our prayers, our joys, and even our struggles—as a spiritual sacrifice to God.

When we truly understand the meaning of our baptism, it transforms how we live our faith. It calls us to proclaim the Good News, to be witnesses of hope, to pray for one another, and to care for God’s creation. It’s a reminder that we are in solidarity with one another, sharing in each other’s burdens and joys, and striving to make a difference in the world.

Let’s also take a moment to pray for our priests and for more vocations to the ordained priesthood. We need holy, dedicated priests to guide us and celebrate the sacraments with us. And as families, let’s foster an awareness of this beautiful calling in our homes.

So, as we continue to celebrate the Eucharist each week, let’s remember our identity as God’s children and as part of the royal priesthood of Christ. Let’s live each day with purpose, offering everything we are to God.

Wishing you all a blessed and grace-filled week!

In Christ’s love,