Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: January 8, 2024

Date:   Baptism of the Lord

Scripture Text:  Mark 1:7-11

This is what John the Baptist proclaimed: “One mightier than I is coming after me.I am not worthy to stoop and loosen the thongs of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

It happened in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized in the Jordan by John. On coming up out of the water he saw the heavens being torn open and the Spirit, like a dove, descending upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today, the final day of the Christmas Season, is Mark’s account of the Baptism of the Lord by John the Baptist. Though short, the text reveals that John the Baptist was the herald, the one sent to “prepare the way” and Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the Living God. We know this from John the Baptist’s words as well as the words of the Father Almighty.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I recognize Jesus as the Son of the Living God?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your beloved Son to dwell among us as our true brother and among us to reveal your unfathomable love for us, “Abba.” As we continue our journey to life in You, send your Spirit to strengthen our faith, to deepen our hope, and to increase our love so that we might grow into the daughters and sons You created us to be and that your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, died to redeem. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.