My husband and I complement each other pretty well. My strengths tend to be areas he is lacking and vice versa. Preparation is one area where I need his help. I am the impatient, "let's jump right in and get started," type of person. He is the "let's research, plan, cover all our bases," type. While my way can be fun and spontaneous, his way has fewer headaches.
Our passage today shows Jesus preparing for his ministry. I believe Jesus, being fully God could have jumped right into the miracles, healings, and preaching but instead he waited and prepared. I think he did this for our benefit. He was preparing us for him more than himself for us.
First, John started getting the world ready by opening eyes to the need for repentance. The Hebrews knew a Messiah was coming but they didn't fully understand it was because of their sin that he was so badly needed.
Next Jesus was baptized, setting the example for us and showing everyone present who Jesus was. When the heavens opened and a dove descended on Jesus there was no doubt God was working.
We finally see, in our passage today, how Satan tempted Jesus. We read how the human Jesus resisted Satan through the word. We have a Messiah who understands what it is to be tempted and can empathize with us when we are, but who was strong enough to stand against the devil and his own human desires.
God is a God of order. Preparation is a part of that order. I am grateful that Jesus’ preparation helps us to know him even today.
Read today passage at Biblegateway Matthew 3:1-4:11
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