Christmastide's close in the West

From Ravenna, Italy

          Today is the last day of this season of Christmas. Oh, the joys we have celebrated, and Christmas lights in the Western Church still burn untill this evening. Today is a continuation of the Epiphany, the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord. John the Baptist, our faithful and trusted friend, sees the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove; but his vision shows only glimpse of the essence of the Holy Trinity. His words, however, echo another element of the the things to which God is calling us. Action. Action to treat each individual with dignity and respect because that paticular person is called to the same heavenly home as you and me.: "I baptized you with water; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." (Mk: 1: 7-11)
         Heavenly Father,we thank you for your gifts and blessings. May all hearts open generously to Your Spirit, and increase in faith, hope, and love of Your offering, Eternal Life. We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.