In the 1st C., the name “Jesus” was as common as Michael, John or David are today. Jesus literally means “salvation” or “the Lord saves.” We are in the season after Epiphany, a season in which we celebrate the appearance and miraculous phenomenon of the Christ. Today’s text shows this in the public appearance and the baptism of Jesus, and it captures an element of his naming — the meaning, identity and destiny.
Scripture Reference: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22.
Many people misunderstood John’s ministry. Some viewed him as a freak. Many wondered if he was Messiah. But John was not confused. He was baptizing people into a coming kingdom...into a name that would one day arrive. And then one day…the Name appeared.
Jesus came from Nazareth to be baptized, inaugurating his life of public ministry. There was nothing unusual about being baptized. But this was no ordinary baptism. As Jesus is praying, epiphany happens. Heaven opens...the Holy Spirit descends in bodily form, as a dove...and the Father's voice comes from heaven saying, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased”.
Jesus...Salvation...Messiah...Christ...and now Beloved. Jesus’ name has implications for us. Through it, we identify with God’s family, with the Kingdom, with our baptism, and with Jesus.
In Jesus we’re given a new identity – beloved children of God. If we’re good enough for him, we are good enough. It’s time to rise up and bear the family Name!
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