This week, we are celebrating the baptism of the Lord Jesus Christ. Like John, I get confused at first when I think about Jesus presenting himself to John to be baptized. Why would Jesus - God with us on Earth as a human - have to get baptized? Wouldn't we need to present ourselves to Jesus for us to be baptized by him? The answer: Because Jesus knew that it is what his Heavenly Father would want, and he always humbly follows the will of God. That's beautiful, isn't it?
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Here is the story from Matthew 3: 13-17:
Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw God's Spirit descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from the heavens said, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased."
Our Baptism is a blessing, given to us freely from God in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. There is a reason that it is such an important event in the Christian church, with family members, godparents, friends, congregation members, and visitors celebrating with whoever is being baptized, at whatever age! It is one of the most powerful anointings of the Holy Spirit that we can receive in our lives. Even more celebratory than our own baptisms is the Baptism of the Lord that we are celebrating this Sunday. As Christians, we are called to be "Christ - like," living lives of faithful servants. The act of baptism is a great way to start that, but how can we continue on our never-ending journey? That's where I gained a ton of inspiration through reading Acts 10: 34-36 today:
Then Peter began to speak to them: "I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every people anyone who fears him and practices righteousness is acceptable to him. You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ--he is Lord of all.
How should we live? Look to Jesus' example, talked about here! Show no partiality or judgement towards anybody! If God can love and accept everyone, then we can, too! And, even more, we must commit to peace on Earth between all peoples. The world needs a lot more of that right now, don't you think?
May we remember our Baptismal Blessing, as we were baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, as we go out this week and beyond, and may we share it with others!
God bless us, everyone! Joey
