Ejike Mbaka: Like a Governor Visiting Your House to Request Certificate of Occupancy

Nigerian Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka, has drawn a profound parallel between the baptism of Jesus and the virtue of humility in leadership. Speaking during a recent sermon, the Spiritual Director of Adoration Ministry, Enugu, highlighted the significance of Jesus’ decision to be baptized by John the Baptist.

Using a thought-provoking analogy, Mbaka said, “Just like a governor coming to your house and asking you to give him the Certificate of Occupancy for the land he wants — is it not laughable?” The cleric emphasized that Jesus, despite being the Son of God, humbled Himself to fulfill divine purpose.

Fr. Mbaka recounted the biblical account of Matthew 3:13-17, where Jesus approached John the Baptist to be baptized in the Jordan River. Initially, John was reluctant, acknowledging Jesus’ higher authority. However, Jesus insisted, saying, “Do it, so that all righteousness shall be fulfilled.” This act, Mbaka noted, underscores Jesus’ obedience to God’s will and His desire to set an example for humanity.

Fr. Mbaka encouraged his listeners to reflect on Jesus’ humility and the importance of following God’s plan, even when it seems unconventional. “If the Son of God could submit to the hands of John, how much more should we submit to God’s will in our lives?” he challenged.

Just like a governor coming to your house and asking you to give him the Certificate of Occupancy for the land he wants — is it not laughable? But Jesus said, “Do it, so that all righteousness shall be fulfilled. John agreed and took Him to the water.Then John baptized Jesus inside the waters by immersion.