The Baptism of Jesus
OPENING PRAYER:
Jesus, thank you for guiding us today as we seek to learn more about you and your life.
“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?’
Jesus replied, ‘Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.’” Matthew 3:13-17 (NIV)
REFLECT:
As John the Baptist was once again immersing people in the Jordan river, he was approached by the one he instantly knew to be the coming Savior. When Jesus asked to be baptized in the river, you can sense John’s confusion and humility. He knew he was not worthy to do such a thing and, more importantly, he knew that Jesus was sinless and was not in need of being washed clean of his unrighteousness.
Jesus, however, knew that offering himself humbly in this act was a way of acknowledging the bigger sacrifice that lay ahead of him. On this day that his earthly ministry officially began, Jesus took on the role of a sinner and he began to take on the burden that would eventually lead him to the cross on our behalf.
This act, which is now referenced in the way that current-day churches baptize with water (a symbol of Christ’s death and resurrection), was the first time that God audibly speaks and recognizes Jesus as the Son.
APPLY:
Jesus was willing to be baptized even though he (and John) knew that he didn’t NEED to be. This act that was a symbol of washing someone clean was unnecessary for the sinless son of God as he walked the earth. It changed the way we view and practice baptism. It was a catalyst point for the act that would break our chains and allow an unhindered relationship with God. It was an act of humility and sacrifice that changed the trajectory of mankind.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice and for your example. Help us humble ourselves and reflect on your tremendous gift. Amen