11) Birthrite: Son of God

 

My Son, by Lao Hac, Saatchi gallery

Then John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on Him. I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘The One on whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and have borne witness that He is the Son of God.” John 1:32-34

Did you hear 'Thought for the day' on Radio 4 with Rev Dr Michael Banner?  He spoke about the place of birds in the scriptures.  Here a dove is the visible image of the Creator coming to us.

Jesus grew up.  People think perhaps he is unusual?   He seems rather self assured.  Knows a lot about what the Rabbi is on about.  Nothing special.  Well behaved.  Teenage rebellion yet to come. 

But as Jesus approaches maturity strange things begin to happen. John is a witnesses.  A dove  floats down and descends on him.  Bit by bit we discover this person is exceptional. 

At birth we wonder what this little life will achieve.  How far will they travel?  What will be their influence on the world?  From the start this baby got people wondering.

PRAYER:  We want to live as you lived on earth.  Give us the courage to follow.