Baptism of Christ
Dave Zelenka, ca. 2005

Dear friends,

Today, let us reflect on the passage from Mark 1:4-11, which recounts the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. This passage is rich with symbolism and meaning, and it speaks to us about the transformative power of spiritual practice.

As we read this passage, we see that John the Baptist was baptizing people with water, as a symbol of repentance and forgiveness. But he tells them that someone is coming who will baptize them with the Holy Spirit.

What does this mean? In the Christian tradition, the Holy Spirit is understood to be the source of divine power and inspiration. The baptism with the Holy Spirit is a transformative experience that brings a deeper level of spiritual awareness to the believer. It is a spiritual cleansing and renewal that enables the believer to live a more empowered and fruitful life in service to God and others.

This concept of spiritual transformation is similar to the Tibetan practice of "mind transformation," or lojong. This practice involves transforming the mind from a self-centered, ego-driven state to one of altruism and compassion. It involves a process of contemplation and meditation that enables the individual to develop qualities such as patience, kindness, and generosity, and to use these qualities to benefit others.

In Mark's gospel, we see that Jesus himself underwent a spiritual transformation at his baptism. As he emerged from the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove. And a voice from heaven declared, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased."

This moment marked the beginning of Jesus' ministry, which was characterized by love, compassion, and service to others. Jesus' life and teachings showed us what it means to live a life transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit, a life of selflessness, love, and service.

As we reflect on this passage, let us remember that we too are called to a life of spiritual transformation. Whether we follow the Christian tradition or the Tibetan tradition of mind transformation, we are called to cultivate a deep awareness of the divine within us, to develop qualities such as love, compassion, and generosity, and to use these qualities to benefit others.

May we be inspired by the example of Jesus and the teachings of the great spiritual traditions to live a life transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit and the awakening mind. And may we always seek to serve others with love and compassion, as we journey together on the path of spiritual transformation.