Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him. John tried to prevent him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” Jesus said to him in reply, “Allow it for now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he allowed him. After Jesus was baptized, he came up from the water and behold, the heavens were opened [for him], and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove [and] coming upon him. And a voice came from the heavens, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
Matthew 3:13-17 (NABRE)
Think of it — God gets baptized.
We read here that John is surprised, much like any of us would be, to see Jesus asking for baptism. The mere fact that the Lord asks John for this demonstrates to us the profound respect that God has for us. Jesus waits for John to “allow” the baptism. He poses a request, and John is free to decide. God does not manipulate or cajole. He only gives us a choice and lets us choose. We have no fear of abuse from God, for He has endowed us with a free will that He does not break or bend in order to satisfy Himself. It is a divine kindness that might seem shocking to us. Are we not all used to egotistical people in positions of power? And yet, the omnipotent God is not like them. We see a clear example of this in the the humble Jesus who approaches John for a ceremonial washing that was meant for sinners. The sinless Jesus stands among sinners and elevates the meaning of baptism so that we, His beloved disciples, might be renewed and sanctified by the grace of the Sacrament of Baptism.
Our God is for us, and He is so gentle and respectful of us.
Thank you for reading. Peace.
Eat the Scroll 