September 5

September 5

Jesus' Baptism -- John the Baptist's ministry & honor of baptizing Jesus.

Today's Readings:

Reading 1: Matthew 3

Reading 2: Luke 3:1-23

Reading 3: Isaiah 40:3-5

Each day we read of more prophetic fulfillments from centuries before, but today we also read of the current prophecies of John the Baptist.

Jesus' cousin was called by God to prepare the way for the Messiah. His ministry was powerful and life-changing, yet he had no illusions of grandeur. John knew his place, and willingly kept to it, making his words and deeds all the more powerful.

He knows who Jesus is, and would have known  the promises surrounding the Messiah throughout the history of the Jewish people. Now promises come to fulfillment, and John has the privilege of being a vital part of what God is doing: baptizing Jesus and prophesying that He will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. Notice too that the Father joins in, with His own affirmation of Jesus; words that you and I can personalize since we are in Christ.

You and I have our own part to play in God's Story - a part only we can fulfill. Let's be as faithful as John to boldly take our place in the picture, secure in Father God's affirmation, whilst ensuring that Jesus gets all the glory.

Have a great day!

Mark.