The season of Epiphany reminds us that God's grace extends to all people, including Gentiles. Through Jesus's baptism, we learn powerful lessons about worthiness, participation, and community in our faith journey.
Just like John the Baptist, who felt unworthy to baptize Jesus (see Luke 3:16), many of us wrestle with feelings of unworthiness in our roles and relationships. Interestingly, Jesus didn’t argue with John about his unworthiness—He simply didn’t let it stop Him. In the same way, we often question if we deserve the good life, relationships, or privileges we have. Whether as parents, spouses, leaders, or servants of God, we are undeniably unworthy of the blessings that have been bestowed upon us. Yet, God’s grace reminds us that His love and purpose are not based on our worthiness but on His generosity and goodness.
What Does Jesus Say About Our Worthiness?
Jesus's response to John the Baptist reveals a profound truth: perfection isn't required - participation is. Jesus doesn't demand perfection for us to earn it; He simply asks for our availability and willingness to serve with whatever abilities we have.
What Makes Baptism Meaningful?
Contrary to popular belief, baptism isn’t some magical ritual. Its power doesn’t come from the water or the words alone but from the presence of the Holy Spirit, the support of the community, and the commitment to live in fellowship with other believers. On its own, even when done in the name of Jesus, baptism doesn’t guarantee salvation or the presence of the Holy Spirit. Instead, baptism serves as a sign and seal of God’s grace, a reminder of our need for community, and a symbol of the hope we have in the resurrection. see, Acts 8:16
How Does Community Impact Our Faith?
Acts 8 teaches us that even baptism in Jesus's name needs the presence of community and the Holy Spirit to be truly meaningful. The power of faith is activated when believers come together, support each other, and say "I got you."
What Does God Really Want From Us?
God calls us to: Be the best version of ourselves each day, Participate rather than pretend
Serve with whatever abilities we have, Trust that God will make our offering enough
Life Application. This week, challenge yourself to:
Stop striving for perfection and start focusing on participation
Identify one way you can serve your faith community with your current abilities
Reach out to someone who needs support in their faith journey
Ask yourself:
Where am I holding back due to feelings of unworthiness?
How can I better support others in my faith community?
Am I trying to be perfect when God is simply asking me to be present?
Remember: You don't need to be perfect; you just need to be available. God will take whatever you offer and make it enough for His purposes.
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