This is my Son, chosen and marked by my love, delight of my life.
Painting by Daniel Bonnell
These are the words that Jesus heard when he rose from the Jordan River on the day of his baptism.
As a human being, how would he have felt when he heard God's words? How might these feelings have affected his ministry?
Do we make space to hear God's words of love and affirmation to us? How might we respond? Do we dare?
Song-writer John Bell, who was inspired by the words of Jesus, writes:
Don’t be afraid. My love is stronger than your fear.
When I hear these words, I hear confidence, caring, and authority. Jesus had no doubts about who he was and what he came to do. He had no doubts about the power of love to conquer fear.
The good news - Jesus enters into our broken world, takes our brokenness, and invites us to receive his power, love, and the gift of the Holy Spirit…through OUR baptism, perhaps. Thus begins our journey of transformation and healing.
I hope that you are experiencing the same affirmation that Jesus of Nazareth received when he rose from the Jordan River, saw the promise of a new day, and heard the voice, “You are my beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” From this day forward, may you step forth with courage as you step onward and upward. Your baptism and your call to respond to the needs of the time gives you full authority.
- John Predmore S.J.
