Here is a devotion to start your day!
A spoken version of this devotion is available through the Still, Here audio reflections podcast.
Scripture: Matthew 3:13–17
Jesus, when he was baptized, went up directly from the water: and behold, the heavens were opened to him. He saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove, and coming on him. Behold, a voice out of the heavens said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
Reflection
Before Jesus ever steps into the wilderness, He steps into the water.
Before the silence, there is a voice.
And, before the testing, there is a blessing.
At the Jordan, Jesus joins the line of sinners and goes down into the water of repentance He does not need. When He rises, the heavens open, the Spirit descends, and the Father speaks: “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Notice what has not happened yet. Jesus has not yet preached a sermon, he hasn’t cast out any demons or multiplied loaves. The affirmation of the Father has nothing to do with His résumé and everything to do with His relationship. This may not make sense to us, but fortunately, God’s grace comes to us freely.
Lent begins here because our souls must begin here. If we head into the wilderness trying to earn what Jesus already has, we will be “tempted” to turn our fasting, confessing, and serving into spiritual performance. But if we begin as God’s beloved, Lent becomes something else entirely: not a project to impress God, but a season to walk with Him.
Before you go any further on this 40-day journey, linger at the water. Hear the words Jesus heard, now spoken over you in Him: You are my beloved child. I delight in you before you do anything for Me. The wilderness will test that truth. Today, simply receive it.
A Prayer of Presence
Father,
Before I try to fix myself or prove myself, let me hear You. Speak Your love over me in Christ. Root my heart so deeply in Your love for me that everything I do in this season of Lent grows from that grace. – Amen
Practice for Today
Take five slow minutes in silence. Imagine standing on the riverbank with Jesus. Gently repeat: “In Christ, I am Your beloved.” Let this be your starting line, not your reward.
Journaling Prompt
Where have I been trying to earn God’s approval instead of living from the assurance that I am already beloved in Christ?
Carry This Prayer With You Today
Breathe In: Beloved already...
Breathe out: … I rest in You
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