Luke 3:21-22
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Read Luke 3:21-22 a couple of times as if you had never heard the story before.
We noted before that as a twelve-year-old, Jesus realized he was God’s Son, but we don’t know exactly how God affirmed Jesus’ understanding before this day at the Jordan River. One thing is certain though: Jesus never turned from God’s path or purpose.
Yet here is Jesus at the Jordan River being baptized by John.
John’s baptism was for those seeking God’s forgiveness of their sins and a fresh start on God’s path. And just as Jesus was identified with sinful humanity when his mother presented her purifying sacrifice after his birth, Jesus now voluntarily identifies himself with broken people in the waters of baptism. And his heavenly Father affirms him.
Stop to contemplate this scene. Jesus receives the baptism of repentance to identify with every person ever born – including you. And God approves.
Share your thoughts about this with Jesus and listen to see what he might reveal to you.
Read Luke 3:21-22 again.
The Jordan is the same river that parted for the Israelites as they entered the land God promised to Abraham and his descendants (Joshua 3). But on this day Jesus steps into the waters of the Jordan to begin a new story with a better ending.
Jesus came to do what God’s people could not; he came to bless all the families of the earth. He would do this by taking on the failures, not just of the Israelites, but of all humanity for all time. Because he became like us in every way, Jesus understands our weaknesses, and because of his sacrifice for us we are free to be part of his better story.
Stop to consider whether you have an area of weakness. It might be a destructive habit, an attitude or something else that, if you think about it, causes you to feel shame. Consider inviting Jesus into your area of weakness. Picture him taking your weakness upon himself. Then get still and listen to him.
What might Jesus be saying to you today?
Is there something you need to do in response?
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