David Rives, a Christian author and columnist, reflects on Matthew 3:17, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." This verse is from the story of Jesus' baptism.

In these three revelations, Jesus’ humanity becomes fully realized, first, when he is very young, to the Magi, then, to John and the onlookers at his baptism, just before his public ministry begins.

This Sunday, the Church celebrates the baptism of Jesus Christ. It's an event that is recorded in all four gospels, so we know it's important. But there's a question that has puzzled Christians ...

3. Reassurance. Jesus’ Baptism – in fact, Baptism in general – reassures me of God’s promise of salvation for those who seek him. Lord knows, literally, that I certainly do seek him.

Whereas Jesus is God’s Son by nature, we are God’s adopted children through baptism. That is, like Jesus, each one of us has been dramatically named "beloved child" by God.