The Baptism of Jesus Luke 3:21-23
Imaginative Contemplation
After all the people had been baptised, Jesus also was baptised. How did John respond to Jesus’ request to be baptised? Why do you think that Jesus asked John to baptise him?
While he was praying, heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit came down upon him in bodily form, like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my own dear Son. I am well pleased with you.’ Who saw the heavens open? Who heard the voice?
Enter into the scene
I was in the crowd that day when Jesus came to John. I didn’t recognise him at first because I was too busy watching so many people going up to John to ask for his advice to change their lives. John directed them away from sinful practices and led them to love of God and of their neighbour. But when Jesus came forward? What was that about? I have never seen or heard anything bad about him!
John seemed to feel the same way. ‘You should be baptising me, not the other way round!’ he said. ‘No,’ Jesus replied. ‘I must enter into the depths of fallen humanity in order to lift creation out of its depths.’
Jesus went down into the river, and the current seemed to stop moving for an instant. Then the splashing of water could be heard in the silence as John poured the water over Jesus’ head. The world seemed to stand still; then I saw a dove flying towards Jesus, hovering over him as the clouds parted and a Voice proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. The humble Jesus is the Messiah? I will follow him forever!
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· What does baptism mean for me?
· What did I promise at baptism? Do I renew my baptismal promises?
· Baptism gives us a new start. Can I leave bad memories behind?
· In my relationships with others, can I let go of negative memories?
Prayer
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world. Have mercy on us. Amen.