Theme of the Day: Jesus Appears As The Christ, The Anointed One
“Christ” is not Jesus’ last name, of course. It is a title. The Greek word “Christ” and the Hebrew word “Messiah” both mean the same thing—“The Anointed One.” Anointing was the practice of pouring liquid (typically oil) over the head of someone to signify selection for some special task. However, when the Lord anointed heroes to do his saving work, what he poured over them was his Spirit.
For centuries people of faith had patiently waited for the promised Messiah, the servant of God who would bring the salvation we so desperately need. The time had come for Jesus to be revealed as the fulfillment of that divine promise. So, Christ our Lord came to the Jordan River to be baptized, that he might be recognized by John and revealed to Israel. At his baptism Jesus was anointed—marked as God special servant and empowered by the Spirit of the Lord.
Matthew 3:13-17
Isaiah 42:1-7
Acts 10:34-38
Psalm 45
384 – Hail to the Lord’s Anointed
377 – To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord
682 – All Christians Who Have Been Baptized
680 – Baptized into Your Name Most Holy
679 – God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It
Prayer of the Day: Father in heaven, at the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, you proclaimed him your beloved Son and anointed him with the Holy Spirit. Keep us who are baptized into Christ faithful in our calling as your children, and make us heirs with him of everlasting life; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased. Alleluia.