Isaiah 53.10-11/ Psalm 33.4+5,14+15,20+21/ Hebrews 4.14-16/ Mark 10.35-45
We have considered together last week in our reflection a common human experience about difficulty on letting go of our attachments to material things and dreams. We have further seen that these so-called attachments, which are deeply rooted in our desire to live “this life” in convenience and security (somehow), hinder us to actively participate in Jesus` mission of service, and most especially in putting our hearts in trusting God. Today`s point(s) for reflection is not far from what we have been contemplating
The meaning of true discipleship is a deep life of faith (faith and trust in God), and love of neighbors through service. The nature of true discipleship can be further understood by realizing that our individual baptism is derived from the Baptism of Jesus. True discipleship does not misinterpret the Greatness of Jesus.
His Baptism is a baptism of obedience and commitment to the saving plan of God. His baptism is at the same time the inauguration of His ministry that would eventually lead to the cross. Before His (Jesus`) own Baptism, John was preaching about repentance and baptizing people with water. Therefore, Jesus` Baptism is also understood as baptism of affirmation and identification. Jesus was baptized to fulfill righteousness. Jesus` baptism affirmed the identity and mission of John to preach repentance. The One who is coming after me is mightier than I and He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire (Mark 1.7-8), says John.
In preparation for His ministry in Galilee, He was drove out into the desert right after the river Jordan story. He remained in the desert for forty days and forty nights fasting, became hungry and was tempted, BUT without sin.
Jesus does understand our temptations and weakness. Let us pray unceasingly not to be defeated by our weaknesses and worldly desires and temptations.
The Baptism of Jesus is a baptism of humility. The Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many (c.f. Mark 10.45). From this point we are about to learn and define the meaning of true greatness. Whoever wishes to be great will become a servant and whoever wishes to be first must be the last (and slave) of all (c.f. Mark 10.43-44).