JESUS IS THE BELOVED SON OF GOD

THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD - Matthew 3:13-17

In the book of Isaiah, we find four passages called the Songs of the Servant of the Lord (Yahweh), which are of extraordinary beauty and depth. The Church has always understood these passages as speaking of the Messiah and applied them to Jesus Christ. Although called a servant, he has a very close relationship with God and a close connection with the people. He is presented as the beloved of God, the "chosen one in whom my soul delights". God chose him to “bring true justice to the nations”, saying to him, “I have appointed you as covenant of the people and light of the nations, to open the eyes of the blind, to free captives from prison, and those who live in darkness from the dungeon” (Is 42:6-7). His presence among men will be marked by humility and meekness, becoming a source of comfort and hope. “He does not break the crushed reed, nor quench the wavering flame." He will be steadfast and faithful to the mission given to him: "he will neither waver, nor be crushed until true justice is established on earth" Certainly in Isaiah's words we can review the figure of Jesus Christ who came to establish God's New Covenant with men, a covenant of peace and salvation.

In one of his speeches, Peter reminds his listeners of the facts they also know. John preached and baptised. Then came Jesus, anointed "with the power of the Holy Spirit" and "Jesus went about doing good and curing all who had fallen into the power of the devil” (Act 10:34-38). It is from these facts well known to all that Peter is led to recognise and proclaim Jesus as the "Lord of all" and that peace and salvation come through him, being offered to all.

In the account of the baptism, Matthew presents the manifestation (epiphany) of the divine dignity of Jesus. As Jesus approached to be baptised, John recognised him and refused to baptise him, saying, "I need to be baptised by You." At Jesus' insistence, John baptised him, and then a great divine revelation took place. Jesus is anointed by the “Spirit of God,” who descended upon him like a dove, and the voice of God is heard, presenting himself as the Father of Jesus, who is proclaimed as the “beloved Son,” on whom His “favour rests”. At baptism, Jesus of Nazareth is proclaimed as the Son of God, filled with the Spirit, coming into this world to carry out his mission. He comes as Prince of Peace.

We were baptised in Jesus Christ, as His Spirit came upon us, creating us anew as children of God. Being one with Christ, we are the beloved children and God’s favour rests on us.