I’m a fan of the Marvel superhero movies. You know, the ones with Iron Man, Captain America, etc. I mention this because there’s a tradition with Marvel movies that at the very end of the film, after the credits have rolled, there’s a bonus scene with a sneak preview of the next film in the series.

The feast of the Baptism of the Lord is kind of like one of those scenes. It marks the end of the Christmas liturgical season, but it seems more like the beginning of a new chapter.

Throughout the season we’ve reflected on the events before and after Jesus’ birth, yet in the Gospel accounts of his baptism, he’s a grown man preparing to begin his public ministry. That gives this day a kind of “preview of coming attractions” feel.

Still, placing Jesus’ baptism in the context of Christmas is a good reminder that the season isn’t just about warm feelings and silent nights. That serene baby in the manger is the Son of God, born into humanity for a purpose. This child would grow up to embrace a mission that would lead to suffering, death and resurrection. The public acknowledgement of that mission begins with his baptism by John in the Jordan.

That Jesus asked to be baptized has always been a bit of a theological head-scratcher. He was the sinless Son of God, yet the baptism of John was a baptism of repentance. Even John was confused that Jesus would make such a request. But Jesus’ baptism — like his birth before and his death yet to come — was a manifestation of his solidarity with humanity. It was another sign that he truly was, and is, “Emmanuel,” God with us.

Each of us also has a mission, conferred on us by our own baptisms. We are called to act as Christ for others in a hurting world. Unbound was brought into existence by a group of people who believed deeply in that mission, and we continue to work to fulfill it today. As the Christmas season comes to an end, we are filled with gratitude for all those who’ve joined us.

Thank you, loving God, for gifting us with the privilege of joining in the mission of Jesus. We know our weaknesses and failings, yet we accept your call with humility and resolve. Give us the grace to be up to the task of loving and serving our sisters and brothers honorably and faithfully. We ask this in the name of the Lord of Life, Jesus, your Son and our brother. Amen.