Friday, January 13, 2023

Today’s Scripture Reading
Matthew 3:13–17

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” (NRSV)  

Reflection

I can only imagine the trepidation John the Baptist must have experienced hearing this voice in the wilderness directing him to tell strangers to get their lives together, to repent and be baptized; he chastised the vipers (liars and cheats), and if that was not enough, he was to baptize Jesus. 

To be called upon to deliver such a feat was an honor and a challenge of bravery. 

How many times have we listened to the voices of our ministers calling us to deliver similar messages requiring us to get our lives together, to speak truth to power to the vipers we face in our daily life, and to touch someone with the spirit of the Lord?  

John the Baptist was on a journey. And we must continue the journey to repent, to pray to ward off the evils in our streets, homes, governments, and any place we find that one person who shall display enough courage to listen to the messages we carry from the voices of our ministers.  

These messages are our gifts to share. Accept this honor and pay it forward! True Christians know their task ahead. Stay on course and be an example. Spread the message.     

Prayer

Lord, I hear your voice. I am covered in your blood, and I feel no fear. Amen. 

Written by Beverly Washington, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church 

Reflection and prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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