Ordinary Time

Pause

As followers of Christ, we join Jesus, who went before us, in the waters of baptism. There God offers us new life — a life with the assurance of God’s unfailing love and the power of the Spirit.

Take this time to reflect on your baptism. Give thanks for what it has meant to you. Consider anew what it might mean for your living today.

Listen

About that time, Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. While he was coming up out of the water, Jesus saw heaven splitting open and the Spirit, like a dove, coming down on him. And there was a voice from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I dearly love; in you I find happiness.”

Mark 1:9-11

Think

Who am I? This question seems simple, but the answer can get complicated. We define ourselves by our relationships: child, sibling, spouse, friend, partner, parent. And we also define ourselves by what we do: student, skater, football player, babysitter, pianist. You could create a long list like this about yourself, but it would never fully capture the true you.

When Jesus was baptized by John, an important part of his identity was revealed and affirmed. The heavens opened, the Spirit came sweeping down to rest upon Jesus, and a voice from heaven proclaimed, “You are my Son, whom I dearly love; in you I find happiness.”

Through our own baptism, we are connected with Christ in this baptismal identity. God says, “You are my child. I love you and take so much pride in you. You make me happy.” Like baptism itself, this identity isn’t something that can be earned, it doesn’t depend on our hobbies or friends. It is a gift of God’s sufficient love and grace.

Who am I? I am a child of God.

Meredith Forssman

Pray

God, I am still trying to figure out who I am and what my way in life is. Thank you that, in spite of that, I can rest assured in the knowledge that I am your child and you love me dearly. Amen.

Go

“God of grace and glory, you call us with your voice of flame to be your people, faithful and courageous.

As your beloved Son embraced his mission in the waters of baptism, inspire us with the fire of your Spirit to join in his transforming work.

We ask this in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.”

Revised Common Lectionary Prayers