Wednesday, April 17: “Baptism Is Change”

Matthew 3: 15, 16: “But Jesus answering said to [John], Permit it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he permitted Him. After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove and lighting on Him.”

When Jesus came to John for baptism, it was not a promise for change (He had nothing to repent of); rather, He was setting a pattern for those who wished to follow His righteous example. For after He was baptized, He was descended upon by God’s ultimate instrument for New Birth and change, the Holy Spirit. St. Peter remembered this example, and on the Day of Pentecost He advised the people, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the Name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2: 38) And there was change.