Out of the Water

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'” John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And 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. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He 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. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And 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. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him. Mark 1:1-13

Loving Creator, you moved over the waters

you transformed dry ground to gardens

painted the world with color and beauty

planting us in verdant places to grow

yet we would defile your precious gifts.

We have been baptized in your love

showered with needs and blessings

surrounded by family and clans

yet we rise up to war and insurrection.

Despite all of our terror you love us

with each rising sun you call us again

to turn from our darkness and cruelty

around to our dependence and responsibility.

Take us down into the deep waters again

baptize us anew with you peace and love

make us willing to face our wildernesses

so your creation might heal and thrive again. Amen.