Sunday 13 January 2008

Background

In his baptism by John, Jesus identifies with John's message andthe revival movement it had created, to enrol as a member of thepurified and prepared people of God.

Jesus is insistent that he needs to be baptised by John to 'fulfilall righteousness' (verse 15) suggesting a divine requirement butJohn struggles to recognise the need for Jesus to receive his waterbaptism. John does however recognise that Jesus brings a newsituation, eclipsing his own preparatory ministry.

The Spirit descends like a dove and a voice from heaven reveals tothe readers who Jesus is.

Verse 17 brings together two images from the Old Testament. FromPsalm 2 thereare the words from the royal coronation, "You are my Son; today Ihave begotten you" (verse 7) and from Isaiah 42"Here ismy servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights"(verse 1).

The voice of heaven announces Jesus both as the Son who serves andas the king who rules with justice and humility.

To Ponder

In what ways do we live as people who serve?

How do our lives please God?