Scripture: Mark 1:9-15 and 1 Peter 3:18-22 (N.B. Genesis 9:8-17; and Psalm 25: 1-10 – Lent 1 Year B)
Introduction and Summary
John the Baptist, baptises Jesus; God and the Holy Spirit appear; Jesus then goes out into the wilderness to be tempted. John is imprisoned, Jesus begins his ministry and we hear his message: “the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” Phew!
Meaning at the Time
It’s like the overture in an opera, a summary of the 15 chapters to come, and a manifesto for an election campaign, all rolled into one.
- Why was Jesus baptised? Jesus publicly humbles Himself, and this is the trigger for God to endorse Jesus and the Spirit to anoint him Messiah.
- Jesus is also setting an example – showing the way for every follower.
Meaning at the Time
In this time of Lent, many people around the world will get to know God personally during this Lent, because, just as Jesus did, they will:
- Hear the Gospel from others who became followers before them;
- Be baptised, making their public commitment to God; and
- Receive the Holy Spirit.
Peter puts is like this: “While Noah was building his boat, for example, there was plenty of time for people to realise why and change their ways, but in the end a mere eight people were saved from the waters by getting into that lifeboat. Their experience was a bit of a preview of the way baptism saves you. It is not just a bath to clean up your appearance. Rather, you are pulled from the water to a new life so that you can stand before God with a clear conscience.” (1Peter 3: 20-22)
Application for Us, His People
But God has prepared even for when we go our way and not His, and getting lost in the wilderness. We can admit that we’ve taken a wrong turn and reconnect to Him at any time. We can have a special time with Him, not just in Lent, but during every feast, every Sunday and every day of our lives.
Thank God for Jesus!
Preacher & Veteran 