Hi Folk
So this is the first Sunday after Epiphany (which is the revelation of Jesus to us). In Jesus’ baptism (Matt 3:13-17) we encounter God affirming Jesus by sayin:
this is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased
I guess we generally think that those words from the Father to Jesus were to confirm to us and the people who were there that Jesus is the Son of God, the Messiah. As true as this is, I think there is another reason why God spoke to and affirmed Jesus. You see straight from His baptism Jesus was led into the wilderness and tempted by the devil. I think that Jesus had moments in the wilderness when he was thirsty, hungry and tired when He had to cling to those words from His Father reminding Himself that He is God’s Son in whom God is well pleased.
If Jesus needed that affirmation we desperately need it as well. I’m sure that there have been moments in your life when you have wondered if God is even aware of your pain and struggle, and if He is whether He cares. Today I want to tell you that not only is God aware of your struggle and pain, but that He cares deeply about you and the journey you are on, but even more importantly He is with you in the midst of your struggles, pain, fear and disappointment. Jesus said quite a few things but what I keep reminding myself of is that He said even the hairs on our head are numbered and that He is with us always! These things I cling to when life gets difficult and I want to encourage you to cling to those things God has said to you over the years especially when life is painful and uncertain.
Please remember that God loves you, God is well pleased with you and is continually with you. As you journey through this year remind yourself constantly of this and become aware of God’s presence with you, moment by moment, day by day.
Blessings
Harry