The Gospel of Mark: The Baptizer

John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” ~ Mark 1:4-8


Ah...so is this who we are waiting for?

The prophets have just introduced a character onto the stage. A strange man wearing camels hair. He lives out in the wilderness, so he has to have a wild look about him.

But if Isaiah (and Malachi) were introducing him, who is he introducing? Someone even bigger. Someone clearly important. A king? A mighty warrior?

And this baptism...as a first century Jew you know of the Jewish rite of Tvilah - a ritual purification bath. But this bath - this baptism - it will bring forgiveness?

Mark just keep setting his scene. He has set three dramatic introductions into play. Introductions that will lead us not to a baby in a manger, but to a fully grown Messiah.

He is introducing someone we have already been told is good news.

Can we even wait for him to finally come on the scene?


Holy God, thank you for the gospel - the good news - of your Son. Open my mind and heart to this good news and enliven me with your Spirit of servanthood that I might share this good news with a world in need. Amen



Engagement Question:


Who baptized you? What do you know about your baptism? (or remember if you had it when you were older)

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