We are bombarded with endless crises and distractions and small comforts—little hits of relief wherever we can find them. The baptism of Jesus reminds us that the deepest relief, the truest joy, is already spoken over us. As on the day of Jesus’ baptism, God’s joy is not postponed until we all get things right, or until the world is healed. It is offered now.

During our Christmas Eve services here at Christ Church, Kate took a moment in her greetings to welcome our many visitors and also the many familiar faces who had returned home for the holidays. She remarked that it is always joyful to celebrate such a homecoming spirit this time of year. I couldn’t agree more. There’s something in air around Christmastime that taps into our home-going instincts - something deep and spiritual and worthy of our attention, and a great place to start is the book of Jeremiah.