Isaiah 42: 1-4, 6-7; Mark 1: 7-11
This is not the coronation ceremony of Jesus the prince, as some Christians would have you believe. Rather, it is a father, our Father, giving praise to a child for a deed well-done. By accepting baptism, Jesus was acknowledging and embracing the identity and future for which our Father had called him out of creation. This is a call she makes to each one of us. Jesus is not our mighty ruler, but a brother, servant, and mentor, who once and forever is here to lead us, his people, his family, into God's reign of love. Stop denying the truth and accept the baptism of the Spirit in whatever way she appears to you. Then listen closely and you too will hear, "You are my beloved Child; with you I am well pleased."