January 13, 2019

Breaking Open the Scripture Scriptures for January 13th: Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29, Acts 8:14-17, Luke 3:15-17, 21-22; Theme: Baptism of the Lord Luke: This is a continuation of the story of John the Baptist, and his ministry to bring people to God. The people are expecting a messiah, and they are wondering if John is the one. Jesus hears John’s message and he comes forward to be baptized. Jesus knows that he is the intended messiah, but he needs to identify with those who are present and coming forward to be baptized. This was the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Our baptism is also the beginning of our ministry. At this moment, God comes forward and also speaks to the people, that this is indeed the messiah. The good news has played out and now a life of salvation may begin. We relive this moment every year, to have a chance to renew our ministry. We have a chance to remember our baptism, to remember God’s love for us, and wants us to fulfill the ministry of revealing the messiah to the world. Isaiah: This passage from second Isaiah has a word of hope. It is more hopeful than most. During this time in history, the Isrealites had been exiled, because of their disrespect for God. But at some point God told them to come back to and start their life anew. God promised to be with them through the hard times so that things could get better. God takes full control of recovery of the redeemed. God says I will be with you though the waters, all nations will look to you, the children will come back, and life will be wonderful. The presence of God always ends with a family reunion. Divisions will disappear and everyone will be together, having a feast with God. Questions: What does your baptism mean in your life? How do you live out your baptism? What would be the perfect family reunion to you? What needs to happen in the world to make that happen?