This series of posts was insired by The Lorica of St. Patrick, a long prayer of protection that has inspired millions down through the centuries. It beings with such inspiration, repeating the phrase “I arise” – perfect as we rise, and the sun rises, for the start of each new day.
The line this post focuses on is this:
I arise today through the strength of Christ with his Baptism
The baptism of Christ is a moment of belovedness:
In this painting by Piero della Franceca’s painting, Jesus is at the centre of belovedness: under the belovedness of the dove of the Spirit, surrounded by the belovedness of the angels and John the Baptist. framed by that beautiful tree that seems to echo his human form.
Henri Nouwen’s powerful short book Life of the Beloved, explores what being beloved means from four perspectives: being, and feeling, chosen (not rejected); being, and feeling, blessed (not judged or cursed); accepting, and befriending, our unique brokenness (not denying it or pretending we are invulnerable); and giving ourselves (not greedily hoarding our lives for ourselves).
I arise today through the strength of Christ with his Baptism
So if we say, or pray, these words today – “I arise today through the strength of Christ with his Baptism” – we are being invited to participate in this beloved life.
A life of being chosen.
A life of appreciating blessing.
A life of acknowledging brokenness in ourselves and in others.
A giving life.
Flowering Poverello 