We have entered the season of Epiphany, meaning revelation. Our Gospel reading is about the Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist in the River Jordon. This reveals that Jesus, long awaited Messiah, has come as our servant king.

The Baptism of Christ revealed many things. It was a time, like the birth of Jesus, when wonders abounded, when Heaven came down to earth.

People flocked to be baptised by John the Baptist who wore camel hair and a leather belt, like the prophet Elijah. He was cousin of Jesus teaching about sin, hellfire and repentance, and knew that his mission was preparing the way for the Lord. He didn’t mince his words but people came to him looking for God.

The spiritual centre for Jews was the temple in Jerusalem but it was not very accessible, having a Gentile Court, a Women’s Court, an Israelites Court and only high priests were allowed in the Holy of Holies once a year! The system separated and distanced people from God. It portrayed God as cold, distant and separate from his creation. Jesus came to show us that God wants to have a close relationship with us, to love and care for us and be central in our life.

Jesus was without sin so why did he need to be baptised?

1. To show solidarity with us. Jesus is our friend and brother and stands in our place when it comes to sin. He stood in our place at his baptism at the beginning of his ministry, and was crucified for us at the end on the cross. 2. To start the Church. Jews did not have baptism for babies as boys were circumcised and girls had naming ceremonies so Christians were distinctive in being baptised. When we are baptised we are welcomed into a worldwide church family. How wonderful is that!3. To show Jesus’ relationship with the Trinity. God the Father and the Holy Spirit are present with Jesus in a tangible way. A voice from heaven says that Jesus is beloved and The Holy Spirit descends on Him in the form of a dove, symbolising Shalom that we interpret as peace but means much more: restoration, redemption, healing, wholeness and wellbeing.

At our baptism we receive all that came down from heaven to Jesus.

4. We are each one beloved of God as we are created in his image and are uniquely and wonderfully made. God seeks relationship with us but so often we play a game of hide and seek. God asked Adam and Eve when they were hiding in the garden ‘where are you?’ He wants us to be with him.5. We are anointed with the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, the Holy of Holies. We are all high priests.6. We are given power from on high. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. The God who created the universe lives in us. Therefore wherever we go we have God with us. We are a Holy Presence, a fragrance to change atmospheres.

Jesus baptism was closely followed by his temptations in the wilderness. Our path as Christians is rocky. John the Baptist lost his head and Jesus was crucified. 

However, whatever happens: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;I have summoned you by name; you are mine.’ (Isaiah 43:1)

Angela Stewart (lay minister).