The Baptism of Jesus: Matthew 3:13-17
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I was with John when Jesus came to him. Jesus asked John to baptise him, but John seemed to be embarrassed by the request. ‘It should be the other way around,’ he said. You are the one I am preparing for. Of course you are far more important than I am!’ But Jesus insisted, and so John poured the water over his head as he had done with all the other people who had approached him.
But this was different. As Jesus came out of the water, he saw the Spirit of God come down like a dove and lighting on him. Jesus could feel its claws, notice the air moved by its wings. What was this about? Then a voice said ‘This is my own dear Son, with whom I am well pleased.’
I was privileged to hear this. A surge of excitement, of awe, swept over me. Jesus is far more than the person I thought I knew.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· There is always more to a person than we think. Do I make quick judgements about people, not allowing them to change?
· Living in the present moment helps us to gain the strength we need for the future. Jesus’ baptism was a high point which would sustain him in the temptations he was to endure in the desert.
· Do I dare to live in the present, leaving the past and future in God’s hands?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for this moment. You are with me. Your name is I AM. Amen.