Head: Know God’s Word | Heart: Love God | Hands: Follow God’s Way
Read Luke 3
Head
Yesterday, we learned about Jesus as a twelve-year-old boy at the Temple. Many years went by, and Jesus grew from a boy into a man. In Luke 3, we learn about His cousin, John the Baptist. He was a preacher. He preached about people’s need to turn away from their sins (repent) and turn to God. John told people they needed to be baptized as a symbol of their changed lives. He baptized many people in the Jordan River. When a person is baptized, they are lowered completely into the water. It is an act of obedience commanded by Jesus. They do this to show others that they are followers of Jesus. One day, as John was baptizing people, Jesus Himself came to the water to be baptized!
Does this mean that Jesus needed to be forgiven of sins? No, Jesus never sinned. But Jesus wanted the people to see His example of following God’s will. After Jesus was baptized, something amazing happened. The Holy Spirit came and rested on Jesus in the shape of a dove! Then a voice from Heaven said, “You are my Son, whom I love; with You, I am well pleased.” It was God’s voice!
Heart
It must have really encouraged Jesus to know that His Father was happy with Him. Everything Jesus did was to obey His Father. Jesus also wants His followers to believe in Him and be baptized. Baptism celebrates a new life in Christ. This public commitment glorifies God and brings Him honor.
Hands
As a family, this is a great opportunity to share your stories of baptism and following Jesus! Share how your life has changed after you began to follow Jesus!
Prayer: God, thank You for the gift of Jesus! Thank You for Your love! In Jesus’ name, Amen.