Scripture: 21 Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptised and was praying, the heaven was opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’ (Luke 3:21-22) Reflection:As if the baptisms of John the Baptist weren’t special enough, today was a truly extraordinary day. Jesus is baptised along with many others by his cousin John who has come to prepare the way. Then God’s voice is heard by all, praising and thanking Jesus very publicly, as well as acknowledging that he is His son. At this point in Jesus’ life he hasn’t started his teaching or miracle work, so why is God pleased with him? A different translation of the voice of God says: “You are my Son, chosen and marked by my love, pride of my life.” (Message). Jesus received praise from his Father, who is proud of him. He has been baptised and can now show people the Way in earnest. There is no doubt from this moment who Jesus is or belongs to, or how much he is loved. God shares this love with all of us, and we are truly blessed to receive it. This is the first part of the Good News story that we have the privilege to share today. Victoria Bray
Scripture & Reflection: Sunday 5th January - Epiphany - and for the week ahead:Scripture: 'In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, ‘Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews?'' (Matt 2.1-2) Reflection:The birth of Mary’s baby would never have gained a place in history if it had not been for the few short years in which as an adult Jesus had not overturned the tables. The gospel records of angels, shepherds and wise men (Magi) appear to be a mixture of family memory with ah-ha reflections from readings of the prophecies in the Jewish scriptures. How much of the stories we have heard about the (three?) wise men (kings?) is historical fact is a matter of individual judgment, but the powerful truth is that the world was transformed by Jesus, and it is symbolised brilliantly by an innocent baby being sought out by wise men of very different cultures, and a poor family visited by rich rulers. If we have come to hope for political leaders who will seek the common good rather than their own advantage, we have Mary’s baby to thank.David Harmsworth
