Rev. Monica Mowdy
January 5th
Scripture Isaiah 42:1-4; Matthew 3:13-17
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. What does it mean that Jesus chose to be baptized even though He was without sin? How does this act of solidarity impact our understanding of baptism?
2. In what ways can we relate to Jesus entering the waters of baptism, especially in light of the brokenness and sin in our own lives? What does it say about God's grace that Jesus took this step on our behalf?
3. The message speaks about baptism as "a grace-filled moment" and an opportunity to participate in something bigger than ourselves. How can we view our own baptisms as a participation in God's mission of justice, mercy, and reconciliation?
4. Isaiah describes the Servant as someone who brings justice with gentleness and compassion. How does this reflect the way Jesus enters the waters of baptism and how we should live our lives in response to baptism?
5. Jesus' baptism is described as the fulfillment of righteousness. What does it mean for us to live out righteousness in our own lives, particularly in the context of our baptism? How can we align our actions with the mission of God?
6. The voice from heaven declares Jesus as "the Beloved Son" in His baptism. How does baptism give us a new identity, and what does it mean for us to be called "beloved" by God? How does this new identity shape the way we live?
7. In the sermon, it is suggested that baptism is not just an individual act but a declaration of God's love for all of humanity. How can we reflect this communal aspect of baptism in our church community and beyond, especially in a world that often emphasizes individualism?
Wesley Covenant Prayer:
I am no longer my own, but yours.
Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will;
put me to doing, put me to suffering;
let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you,
exalted for you, or brought low for you;
let me be full,
let me be empty,
let me have all things,
let me have nothing:
I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things
to your pleasure and disposal.
And now, glorious and blessed God,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
you are mine and I am yours. So be it.
And the covenant now made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven.
Amen.
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