On Sunday we celebrate the First Sunday after the Epiphany, also known as the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord. Our readings for today include Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29, Acts 8:14-17, and Luke 3:15 -22.
The Old Testament prophet Isaiah speaks God's word of hope and comfort to a disobedient people, to a people who have every reason to fear, as they have not done what the Lord asked of them. Yet God promises his presence and protection to the people Israel. The gospel reading directs our attention to the last of the Old Testament prophets as he announces the coming of "he who is mightier… who will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire." Our attention is then drawn to Jesus, whom John baptizes and the Father blesses by anointing him with the Holy Spirit and affirming him as the beloved son. In Acts we hear of people who have been baptized in the name of Jesus, but who have not yet received the Holy Spirit.
What is it that actually happened at Jesus' baptism? What does it mean when John says Jesus will baptize the people with the Holy Spirit and with fire? Is that different from the baptism we practice in the church? Come Sunday and hear some of the ins and outs of baptism – what it is and what it isn't.
See you then!
Becki+
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