Today we celebrate the baptism of the Lord. In Baptism we have all become sons and daughters of God. Sometimes we forget that and we judge people, because of where they live or what they have or have not because of the color of their skin, their race or religion. Even for the apostles it was at times a learning curve. Read chapter 10 of the acts of the apostles (part of what we read at mass today) you see Peter struggling with the same dilemma and God reminds him that he Peter “must not call anyone profane or unclean” Peter addresses the household of Cornelius and says” I now really understand that God has no favorites, but that any- one of any nationality who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him”. Even with this new understanding St Paul later rebukes him for falling back into old ways when he is only dining with the Jewish Christians. Even for the apostles living out the gospel was difficult at times As we continue to journey through the year of mercy we too have to challenge ourselves to see our world in God’s terms and values. We need to reflect on the gospels and the New Testament to see where we fall short and try like Peter to walk in the right path. May this year of Grace help us all to a new understanding of God’s Mercy in our world and in our lives. Pray for me as I pray for you, Fr Karl