Imagine you were one of the women followers of Jesus during his three-year ministry on earth. What would it be like as your heard his teachings, walked by his side, and watched his ministry?
Dear Sister,
Everyday gets more exciting at the Jordan River. You will not believe who I saw today. A strong, confident man walked towards John this morning. I immediately came closer when I heard what John called him. “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world. This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me’” (John 1:29-30). I was confused by John’s words. He went on say that though he baptized with water, this man will baptize with the Holy Spirit. Could it be true? Only the priests, prophets, and kings have been anointed by the Spirit.
Oh sister, how incredible it would be to have the power and love of God fill me. To be able to experience the Presence of God in a more personal way like Moses did in the wilderness would be an unspeakable joy!
Jesus asked John to baptize him. Much to our surprise, when Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens seemed to open, and a bright light and something like a dove descended on him. John and many around him said that the dove was the Holy Spirit. Then the most astonishing thing happened. We all heard the voice of God. Really sister! I heard the voice of God speaking to Jesus! A comforting, yet powerful voice. He said, “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (Mark 1:11).
My sister, hearing our Father say that this man is His son and that He is well pleased with him makes me want to stay around and learn more from Jesus. Perhaps Jesus will baptize me with the Holy Spirit! Hearing what the Father said about Jesus, I can now understand why John said that Jesus has surpassed him. I am still not sure what John meant when he said Jesus was before him. Perhaps soon I will understand. Please tell Mother and Father that I will remain here at the Jordan for a little while. I wish you could join me. This has been a day I will never forget!
Peace be with you,
your big sister
Today’s Bible Reading: Matthew 3:11-17; Mark 1:7-11; John 1:29-34
Comments