March 7, 2022
What does it say?
John prepared the way for the Messiah and baptized Jesus.
What does it mean?
John preached repentance – turning from sin and choosing to live by God’s Word – to prepare the people for the Messiah. John’s baptism of Jesus was a defining moment and officially marked the beginning of Christ’s earthly ministry. The sinless Son of Man had nothing of which to repent. Still, He humbly submitted to baptism in obedience to His Father, identifying with those He came to save from sin. Jesus’ prayer showed His dependence upon the Father, who then displayed His approval by opening the heavens in divine revelation. As the Holy Spirit anointed Jesus, the Father’s voice affirmed that this was indeed His beloved Son in whom He delighted. The Messiah had come!
How should I respond?
Prayer is essential in our relationship with the heavenly Father. The example Jesus always set in prayer was one of complete submission to His Father’s will. As you pray and submit to God, He will empower you with His Spirit and give you the grace needed to live for Him. Do you prayerfully depend upon God to meet your needs each day according to His will, or do you come to Him only when all else fails? How will you make Jesus’ example a priority today?