Friday, January 31, 2003
Friday, January 31, 2003
In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in
the Jordan.
It was a significant milestone in Jesus' life. Until this time his ministry had been centered in the
artistry and hard labor of a carpenter shop. We have no indication that he used that carpenter
shop as a pulpit. Remember the surprise of his family, friends and neighbors when he began his
ministry? It is as if he came out of nowhere. Today we would say that Jesus came to the
ministry as a second vocation. He had been in the business world. But now at about thirty years
of age, he hears a call in his heart and he answers that call by being baptized by John. And as
he comes out of the water he has a climactic experience. The heavens open and he sees the
Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove and he hears the very voice of God saying, "Thou art
my beloved Son . . . ."
Are we following our heart's calling?
(Mark 1.9
NRSV)
John the Baptist was in the wilderness preaching a baptism of repentance for sins, and all the
people of Jerusalem and the surrounding countryside were going out to be baptized by him.
Among those who received John's baptism, Mark tells us in his simple, understated way, was
one Jesus from Nazareth of Galilee. And when Jesus came out of the water, immediately he
saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove; and a voice came from
heaven, "Thou art my beloved Son; with thee I am well pleased."
Lord Jesus, help to remember my baptism as I follow your call for my life. Amen.
