Today we are reading Matthew 3. In this chapter we read about the ministry of John the Baptist and the baptism of Jesus.“Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, 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 thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”” Matthew 3:13-17 ESV John is bold and powerful until Jesus shows up. Then he is humble and submissive to Jesus. He even tries to prevent Jesus from being baptized in awareness to Jesus’ authority and majesty. Ultimately he relents and Jesus is baptized. The result is the Holy Spirit descends on Jesus and God the Father speaks powerful words of endorsement. Think of your own baptism…what did God say about you after you were baptized? He says the same thing every day. You are His beloved child. God bless you as you ponder Jesus’ baptism and remember your own! Pastor Tim
