A Father's Loving Words

And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:17)

Anyone who has had a difficult childhood, longs to hear these words. What a priceless moment for Jesus, but also for those who witnessed it. 

Society today encourages us to achieve more and more. We tend to believe that our lifestyle, when successful, defines us. Things are important as we feel the need to acquire the latest gadget or sport the newest styles, drive the fastest car. Living an unobtrusive life isn’t an option for many.

Look now to Jesus, the one who truly is above all and is to be considered superior in every way. Jesus lowered himself to be one of us, to take on human form. Reading the scripture selection for today, it is striking how very powerful these words are; a tremendous witness to the world.

Jesus asked John to baptize Him, as he had been baptizing those who were following him. (Matthew 3:13 “Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John.”) John wasn’t prepared for this and he told Jesus that it should be Him baptizing John. Jesus in all humility responded and asked John to do it anyway. (Matthew 3:15 “Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented.”)

Dear God, I want to hear you say the words to me which you said to Your Son, Jesus. I want you to be pleased with me too. Lord show me how to live as Jesus did, with humility and grace. Amen




Matthew 3:13-17

Jesus’ humility shown through His baptism

26 December 

Scripture Reading

Read Matthew 3:13-17 and reflect on the passage.

Why in the world is Jesus standing in a long line of people waiting to be baptized by a crazy man shouting repent? Believe it or not, this was the very time He had been waiting for, the time when people were more aware of their sin and their need for God than ever before. In being willing to be baptized, He would come to identify with the very ones He came to save.

Many thought John was the one, but he clearly understood his role and knew there was One coming after him who would be greater. He allowed himself to be surpassed. Jesus who was washed clean in the Jordan was the greater One, the Messiah, yet He was willing to assume a position of subservience as He submitted himself to a baptism of repentance by John. He humbled himself and appeared lesser.

Humility in this day and age—when the focus seems more on self—appears all but non-existent. John and Jesus were able to humbly step aside to let God accomplish His call in them. When the cry is to get our own way, we would do well to seek first God’s purpose and plan.

Questions

1.      How is Jesus revealing Himself to you in ways that ask you to step back so that He may be exalted in your life?

2.      Recalling your own baptism, how is the Glory of God being revealed through humble acts of word and deed in and through you?

Prayer

Humble our hearts Oh Lord, that we may be set free from all that keeps us from Your plan and purpose for our lives. Amen.

—Patti Morlock