Mark’s gospel account is very different from Matthew and Luke’s. Where Matthew and Luke take time to establish who Jesus is Mark rushes head long into the narrative. Mark begins with the baptism of Jesus which is prefaced with an introduction to John the Baptist. A rather wild looking character with his camel skin clothes and peculiar diet. Jesus receives his baptism from John. Immediately upon coming up from the water the sky is torn open, the dove descends and the voice of God declares “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
The baptism of Jesus is told by Mark in a very quick manner. It has interesting characters and is a cosmic, earth shattering event. When we examine this story many questions come forward. To my mind one of the most important is: in light of Jesus’ baptism what does my own baptism mean to me?
Text: Mark 1: 4-13
Questions to Consider:
- What do baptism and wilderness have to do with one another?
- How are we connected to God through baptism?
- Describe what your baptism means to you.
Prayer for Sunday:
Heavenly Father, I give you thanks for your word to me in scripture today. As I prepare to come and worship your holy name I pray that you guide my thoughts. Allow your word to dwell richly in me and may your Spirit sustain me as I seek to do the work of your kingdom. In Jesus name. Amen.
