John the Baptist was in the wilderness calling for people to be baptized to show that they were changing their hearts and lives and wanted God to forgive their sins. Everyone in Judea and all the people of Jerusalem went out to the Jordan River and were being baptized by John as they confessed their sins. John wore clothes made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey. He announced, “One stronger than I am is coming after me. I’m not even worthy to bend over and loosen the strap of his sandals. I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” About that time, Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. While he was coming up out of the water, Jesus saw heaven splitting open and the Spirit, like a dove, coming down on him. And there was a voice from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I dearly love; in you I find happiness.” (Mark 1:4-11, CEB)
As we start the season of Epiphany and the Wise People found Jesus by following a star and the world knows the coming glory, it is interesting to me that the story of Jesus’ birth is only in two gospels. The visit of the Magi is only in one gospel, yet all four gospels record the baptism. Which is more important? The birth, the magi visit, or the baptism?
And this version only has Jesus seeing the dove, and hearing the voice. So is it for the people he is baptized or for himself?
I posted a meme the day I wrote this: “There will always be someone who can’t see your worth. Don’t let it be you!” Maybe even Jesus needed the reminder of who he was.
Baptism makes you God’s child. You are a part of the family, not because of what you have done, but because God says so. Nothing you do can break that relationship either.
Know whose you are and how much you are loved.
And share that love with all the world.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 
Yes! Thank you!