Matthew 3:13-17
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan River. He came to John, wanting John to baptize him. But John tried to stop him. John said, “Why do you come to me to be baptized? I should be baptized by you!” Jesus answered, “Let it be this way for now. We should do whatever God says is right.” Then John agreed. So Jesus was baptized. As soon as he came up out of the water, the sky opened, and he saw God’s Spirit coming down on him like a dove. A voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the one I love. I am very pleased with him.” Matthew 3:13-17 (ERV)
In one simple act, God confirms to Jesus who Jesus is (God’s son) and that God loves him. Didn’t Jesus already know this? Theologians disagree, but even if he did, what a powerful way to begin his mission, with God’s voice announcing who he is and that he is loved by God.
The message in baptism is the same for us.
There was a time when I struggled with the idea of baptism. I struggled with the idea that if someone was not baptized, they would not be welcomed into the kingdom of God. I struggled until a pastor at Southwood said that baptism isn’t for God, it’s for us. What a powerful thought. For us, it’s a time when God proclaims publicly – “you are mine and I love you”. A wonderful proclamation witnessed by parents, sponsors and the congregation of what is already true. We are God’s and God loves us.
What does that mean?
Wherever we go, God goes with us. In whatever we do, God will guide us. In who we are, God loves us.
God accepts us and loves us, just as we are, and sends us out to spread his love into all the world.
Questions for Reflection:
- How do you think about baptism? What questions do you have?
- Do you know when you were baptized? Do you remember/celebrate it?
Prayer:
God our father, you know us and love us, just as we are. Go with us, into the world, to do your work and spread your love so that all people will experience your love and grace. In Jesus name, Amen.
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