Scripture scholars often call the first twelve chapters of the Gospel of John as the Book of Signs, and there are seven of these signs. Signs or miracles point to a deeper reality. The reality to which these signs are pointing is this: The God who is transcendent, eternal, invisible, and almighty has become immanent, temporal, visible, and vulnerable in the person and ministry of Jesus.

As I have repeatedly emphasized, Christmas is a season in our liturgical calendar. It begins on the eve of Christmas and ends on the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord (today). Tomorrow, we begin the season of Ordinary Time. You will notice some changes in the liturgy. The creche, the tree, and other Christmas decors are removed. The general liturgical color is changed from white to green. The readings will begin to focus on the public life and ministry of Jesus. Baptism, as you know, signals the public life of Jesus.