Gospel of Matthew Series- Chapter 3: Jesus is baptised.

 Chapter 3: Jesus is baptised.

THE BIBLE- GOSPEL OF MATTHEW SERIES ICON.

At the beginning of the public life of Jesus, Matthew describes the baptism of our Lord in the Jordan. This is the investiture of Jesus as Messiah. He is presented as the Servant of Yahweh, the suffering Servant as foreshadowed in Deutero-Isaiah. 

His baptism in the Jordan symbolises his vocation as Servant until death.  On the beloved son descends the Holy Spirit. In this way Jesus is anointed for his mission of prophet, priest and king.  By the descent of the Spirit and the words of the Father, Jesus’ baptism is given a new dimension and becomes a sign of Christian baptism. 

The Baptism of Jesus is one of His most striking manifestations.  The liturgies of the East and West make use of these accounts for the feast of the Epiphany.  the Gospel of Jesus’ baptism is read on the first Sunday after the Epiphany.

ACTION PLAN FROM CHAPTER 3
This week as we reflect on chapter 3, we may wish to:

·                     Spend time in reflection about our vocation. What is the unique task Jesus asks of me to perform?

·                     Review my vocation- the positives and the challenges in order to be renewed by the review.

·                     Attend a baptism at our local parish to assist our own renewal of our baptism.

·                     Use the baptismal promises as part of our prayer life each day/week or twice weekly to keep them in the forefront of our minds.

·                     Examine how the Lord’s favour rests on you.Write a list and keep it handy to read on 'dark and grey days'.

·                     Explore the sacrament of baptism to understand more fully its significance and symbolism.

May the journey of Matthew's Gospel in chapter 3 bring you blessings.