Since we're talking about the baptism of Jesus, we'll start by thinking about the importance of water. After that, we'll talk about how our spiritual ancestors also recognized the value of water. Turns out, they were pretty smart. The image of water is all over the place in the scriptures, from the OT to the life of Jesus. Perhaps when we get to the life of Jesus, we should bring all those stories and themes from the OT about water into the mix. Especially when we're thinking about baptism. New life, new beginning, salvation, freedom, healing, wholeness.
So Jesus gets in line to be baptized. Now, this is the point where we say, "What?" Because if anyone doesn't need baptism, it's Jesus. J the B seems to think the same thing: "I need to be baptized by YOU!" But Jesus says, "Let it be so now." Now. This is the place I meet you. I'm not here to meet you once you're cleaned up. Not here once you figured things out. Not here once you're finally sure. I'm here now. Jesus doesn't stand far off from humanity, he steps in and wades into the water with us.
Then, Jesus steps into the water; the heavens open and the dove descends. This story really runs parallel to the creation story of Genesis 1. In the beginning. This is the beginning of Jesus' ministry. No sermons yet. No miracles yet. No crucifixion yet. No resurrection yet. And YET, "This is my beloved. With him I am well pleased." This is the true beginning.
Many in our tradition tell us the beginning of faith, life with God, is fear. We're all messed up, dirty sinners. Fear, hell, and damnation. What if that's not the beginning of faith? Maybe the beginning is, "You are my beloved." That seems to fit better with the story of creation in Genesis 1...God creates human beings and calls them "very good."
There's practicality in the meal Jesus gave us (the Lord's Supper) that also runs parallel with the practicality of the presence of water in our lives, and it invites people to live into it. Maybe if we remind ourselves often enough that we are God's beloved, we'll begin to believe it. And if we begin to believe it, maybe we'll begin treating others as if they, too, are God's beloved. Because they are. And maybe that's where new life begins; not just for us, but for all of creation.
Speaker: Aaron Vis
Scripture: Matthew 3:13-17
http://bible.com/events/49546182
