Ash Wednesday,
February 22 – Read Matthew 3:13-4:11
Jesus’
ministry begins with a tremendous spiritual experience at his baptism. As he
comes up out of the waters of the Jordan River he sees the heavens torn open
and the Spirit of God descends on him like a dove, filling him with power. At
the same time, he hears God’s voice claim him as God’s Son and name him the
Beloved. No sooner does the Spirit come to him than it leads him out into the
wilderness where he fasts for forty days. During this time Jesus reflects on
what God is calling him to do, and at the very end when he is hungry and weak
the devil appears and tempts him.
Reflection
questions: In our baptisms we are symbolically washed and cleansed. Under
the water of baptism our old, selfish self is drowned. Then we are filled with
a new Spirit and given a new identity: God’s beloved child. Like Jesus, it is
good for us to reflect on what this means. So here are two good questions: Do
you feel like you are a child of God who God very much loves? How does that
feeling influence your life?
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your love. Strengthen me with your Spirit. Help me
to do your will. In the powerful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
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