January 9, 2017 THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD

Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7

Psalm 29

Matthew 3:13-17

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”  Matthew 3:17

Lord, the Father spoke from the heavens to you and to all of us how pleased he was with you.  He also told the world who you were: his only beloved Son.  This came at the time of the beginning of your mission to bring salvation to all mankind.  How important to you this endorsement must have been.  We all need encouragement at the start of new chapters in life.  Whether we are starting a new job, becoming a parent or grandparent for the first time or entering retirement support from someone we respect can be critical to success.  Even starting out each day with all its known and unknown challenges requires confidence that you are with us.  Lord, these words of the Father should be on my bathroom mirror to remind me I am precious and glorious and loved.  I am aware that I am blessed and am confident you have great things in store for me today.  I believe, Jesus that you are ready to help me in any way I need.  Amen.