Dyeing for a new life

Christians celebrate the baptism of Lord Jesus in the first fortnight of the year. Baptism — from Greek,

baptiso — means “dyeing” or “washing”. The gospel narratives portray Jesus, though sinless, standing in line with sinners, waiting to be baptised by John the Baptist. Knowing who Jesus is, John protests: “I need to be baptised by you, and do you come to me?” Jesus replies that he has come to save sinners. Indeed, when Christ’s birth is announced, his mother, Mary, is told: “You shall name him ‘Jesus’ for he will save his people from their sins.” In Aramaic, “Jesus” means “God saves”.

Second, at Jesus’ baptism God’s voice is heard, saying, “This is my son, my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” Christians believe that baptism initiates one into God’s family.

Third, after his baptism, Jesus embarks upon his mission to proclaim the “good news” (gospel) of God being father-mother of all peoples, thereby stressing the need to inculcate virtues like love, joy, peace, justice, equality, fellowship and care for the earth.

This weekend, we remember an exemplary Indian Christian, Devasahayam Pillai (17121752), who belonged to an influential family and was put in charge of state affairs under the then Diwan of Travancore, Ramayyan Dalawa.

Upon learning about Jesus from his friend, Eustachius de Lannoy, Devasahayam opted for baptism as an adult in 1745. Truly, he seemed “dyed” in Christ-colour, for his life mirrored Christ-like love, joy, serenity, service and self-sacrifice.

After suffering many tortures, punishment and imprisonment on account of his faith, Pillai was shot dead on January 14, 1752. On December 2, 2012, emeritus Pope Benedict XVI declared him as “Blessed” — one step away from being declared “Saint”. His tomb is venerated at the St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu.