Theme of the Day: Revealed As Our Substitute At His Baptism
At his baptism in the Jordan River Jesus was publicly anointed with the Holy Spirit and designated by God the Father as his chosen Messiah. Thus, Jesus’ baptism was the beginning of his public ministry. Jesus’ baptism revealed that he was not just a nice guy who could make a sturdy table. He was God’s chosen servant, the one who had come to bring salvation to the ends of the earth. Jesus is the one willing to stand in our place as our substitute and Savior.
Jesus’ baptism reveals to us who he really is. Our own baptism does the same! Our baptism was the beginning of a new and better life—eternal life!—a gift graciously given to us by our truest friend. Jesus’ ministry and our eternity with him. It begins with baptism.
Mark 1:4-11 .
Isaiah 49:1-6
Romans 6:1-11
Psalm 2A
386 – Songs of Thankfulness and Praise
377 – To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord
682 – All Christians Who Have Been Baptized
679 – God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It
692 – All Who Believe and Are Baptized
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.