Our Scripture reading today is Luke 3:21-22, "Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased."
John the Baptist was seeing a great response to the message he was preaching. Little did he know Who he would baptize on this particular day. What a moment it must have been to witness the baptism of Jesus Christ! Not only that, but hearing God speak and seeing the dove come upon Him. This wonderful event takes place just before Jesus begins His three years of ministry. One reason we are to be baptized today is to follow the example of our Saviour. It is our way of identifying with Him in His death, burial, and resurrection.
As we seek to be labourers in the work of the LORD, it is imperative that we serve in the power of the Holy Ghost. “What this scene was in the life of the Lord, Pentecost was for the Church. Then she was anointed for her divine mission among men; the unction of the Holy One rested upon her, to be continued and renewed as the centuries slowly passed.” (Meyer) The mission we have in 2023 is in need of the anointing of God's Spirit. Our plans cannot replace the power of God. Our use of technology cannot replace the power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:5, "That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God."
Have a great day!