Jesus' Amazing Baptism

The beginning of the good news about 

Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.

(from Mark 1:1-11)

Alicia Vargas tells the story of picking up her six-year-old granddaughter from what she thought was her soccer game. She explained to me, “No, Nana, it wasn’t a game; we were only practicing skills, like kicking and running. Even soccer players have to practice the basics sometimes.”

Amazing.

True, isn’t it? Sometimes experienced disciples and church members have to go back to the beginning and review, practice the basics.

The basics begin for the Gospel of Mark when John the Baptizer appears in the wilderness, people confess their sins, and are baptized for repentance.

The basics continue as John the Baptizer says that while he baptizes in water, Jesus is coming and will baptize in water and the Holy Spirit.

The basics conclude with Jesus’ baptism as the heavens are torn, the Holy Spirit descending him as a dove, and God’s voice declares Jesus is the chosen, the beloved Son.

Amazing isn’t it.

Not only did everyone see this, but by reading Mark, we’re assured that Jesus, Spirit-filled and Spirit-led, accompanies us on our mission of continuing the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God.

Amazing!

It’s hard to imagine a better way to begin this year than with the assurance that Jesus stands among us, leading us, through a coming, tumultus, year.

Jesus stands with us no matter how rough a personal trial becomes.

Think about it: Baptism candidates are asked if they will renounce the powers of evil, injustice, and oppression. What evil, injustice, or oppression do you think most needs to be renounced?