On this feast day of the Baptism of our LORD, we will read from the Gospel according to Luke. We begin our Scripture reflection with the words of John the Baptist and then hear of Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. We will explore the prophetic words of John and then reflect on the meaning of Jesus' baptism, and why Jesus' baptism has important meaning for our daily lives as Christians and our witness to Christ's ministry in the world.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Luke. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Luke 3:15-17, 21-22).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the Scripture lesson from the Gospel according to Luke and reflect on the images presented at the Jordan River: what do you imagine it was like to see all of the people getting baptized in the river; why do you think Jesus was among the people, to be baptized as one of the crowd; and how do you think John's words of the winnowing-fork to clear his threshing floor factors into this scene?
After reading the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, reflect on the author's statement regarding the popularity of John's ministry of baptism and "the willingness of Jesus to belong to the actions of the larger group" in supporting John's actions. How might John's actions support and introduce the ministry of Jesus?
After reading the "WHERE..." paragraph below, consider and reflect on the author's statement that John's ministry of baptism was about judgment and redemption, and if so, how is Jesus' baptism similar to others and also different? Consider the author's last two sentences that contend that all choices in the world are complicated, and made within a context of an imperfect system: how does this relate to the forgiving and restoring waters of baptism?
After reading the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on the author's statement regarding God's "naming and claiming" of people in the act of baptism, and how does this significant act help us to hear the affirmation from God of our worth as God's created beings?
After reading the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below, reflect on the author's statement: "What is begun in baptism is lived out through the practice of prayer by which one receives the Holy Spirit." How does daily prayer guide your life as a follower of Jesus?
