"And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, 'This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased'" (Matt. 3:16-17, ESV).
It is hard to read this account, so close to Christmas, and not think of the implications. Jesus comes to John to be baptized. John, realizing who Jesus is wants to refuse, because his baptism is a baptism for repentance. John recognized the Jesus did not need to repent in order to be right with the Father. Jesus' baptism was a confirmation of John's ministry, a continuation of the parallels between Jesus and the nation of Israel, and the institution of the ordinance of baptism.
The Father wants the crowd to understand that John was right; Jesus didn't need repentance. He was the sinless Son of God. The Father states, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased." It is a statement of Jesus' innocense as well as a publicly expressed seal of approval upon the upcoming ministry of the Son. Many would reject Jesus' claim that he was the Son of God, but here the Father confirms it. Many would reject Jesus' ministry, claiming he was empowered by Satan to do the works he did, but here the Father states he is "well pleased" with Jesus.
As we gather this Christmas, around the tree or table, I hope we realize the true worth of the gift God has given by sending his beloved Son to die on our behalf. I hope that you have placed your trust in the One of whom God said he was "well pleased." Remember this Christmas (and everyday) the Jesus has purchased our way to God. After all the presents are unwrapped and the thank yous are said, don't forget to offer up thanks to God for the greatest gifts of all.
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