Mark 1:4-11 (NRSV)
Read Mark 1:4-11 on biblegateway.com
Verse 4John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Verse 5And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Verse 6Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. Verse 7He proclaimed, "The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. Verse 8I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."
Verse 9In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Verse 10And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. Verse 11And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased."
Devotion
Do you arrive at church services in time to hear the preludes? If so, do you settle in, listen, meditate, and prepare yourself to begin worship? Preparations before beginning important endeavors—including worship and ministries—foster meaningful experiences. Today’s gospel text affirms this. John the Baptist was a prelude to the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. John got people’s attention with his words and lifestyle, which may have reminded the Israelites of Elijah, the prophet they expected would return. John wasn’t Elijah, but he certainly prophesied! He proclaimed a new beginning that would come with the one—Jesus—who was more powerful than himself. John didn’t refuse to be “only” a prelude to Jesus. He understood preparations are important. He embraced his call to prepare people for receiving Jesus. Sometimes it’s hard for us to be a prelude rather than the “main event.” But preludes are important for successful future beginnings!
Prayer
Eternal God, sometimes we struggle when you call us to be preludes; forgive us. Remind us that as preparers we help foster the success of future beginnings. Together in Jesus’ service, Amen.