Daily Devotion for March 8, 2025

Devotion:

For an audio version of this devotion, click here.

Read Matthew 3:13-17.

In the sermon series we are beginning tomorrow for the season of Lent, we are focusing on the first things Jesus said in various settings and situations, including the first thing he said in each of the four Gospel accounts of his ministry among us. Verse 15 of our passage for today gives us the first thing he said in “The Gospel According To Matthew.” He has come for baptism from John. And when John protested, Jesus offers his reply to convince John that they need to do this to fulfill God’s will.  

Most of us would agree with John - why would Jesus need to be baptized? When we are baptized, we are participating in God’s will for our life and receiving God’s Spirit. That’s what Jesus did. Also, when we are baptized, we are affirmed as God’s children. Jesus was affirmed as the “Son of God” at his baptism.  

However, here is the lesson I primarily receive from Jesus’ baptism. When Jesus had to choose between being on the banks with the religious leaders (who thought they were better than the people in the water) and being with the sinners in the water, Jesus chose to be in the water. I see in his baptism what we will see throughout his ministry: He was always among the sinners so he could lead them out of their sin.  

Personal Worship Option:

Offer this prayer or one in your own words: Gracious God, thank you for accepting me as one of your own from the time I was born. Help me to live into my baptism, knowing that you call me through it to join you in leading people to Christ. In his name I pray, Amen.