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(Matthew 3:13) "Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John to be baptized by him. But John protested strenuously, having in mind to prevent Him, saying, It is I who have need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me? But Jesus replied to him, Permit it just now; for this is the fitting way for [both of] us to fulfill all righteousness [that is, to perform completely whatever is right]. Then he permitted Him.”

Our brother David Fraser sent me a message this morning that set me off researching today's Word. He wrote, "... In Jesus's (and John the Baptist’s) day, BAPTISM was normally reserved for people who were converting to Judaism. So, to tell Jews that they needed to be baptised was a really major statement, implying that they were in need of a massive change in their status/ lives. You can imagine this creating a massive stir and people being really offended, but actually, the opposite happened: people were deeply convicted by the Spirit …."

NB - Baptism for us is an open declaration that we are followers of Jesus Christ. It is a public confession of our faith in, and commitment to, Jesus Christ.

Jesus wasn't baptized for the same reasons we believers need to be baptized. Instead, his baptism confirmed his identity as the Messiah. It demonstrated his willingness to take our humanity upon himself so as to be the perfect atonement for all sin and death.

To encapsulate. Jesus's obedience [and obeisance] brought Glory to GOD, salvation for us, and a beautiful affirmation. (Matthew 3:16) "And when Jesus was baptized, He went up at once out of the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he [John] saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on Him. And behold, a voice from heaven said, 'This is My Son, My Beloved, in Whom I delight!'"

GOD, who created all our hearts, says, “Come to Me, my dear Child, and I will show you how to break free and live! Do your part and trust in Me enough to honour Me.” 

Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve those who are sick amongst us—Maria, Lorenzo, Matteo, Romeo, Sebastian, Nathaniel, Amy, Franca, Daniela, Kristina, Paul, Roger, Alastair, Ian, Alex, Alexander, Lynette, James, Keiron, Samantha, Jay, Liliana, Maria, Susanna, and those you bring to our minds right now… Please grant your healing power to those who minister to all the sick among us so they may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care. We pray this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen 🙏