Please read Luke 3:23-38
Today’s scripture reading (very seldom read aloud in worship – all those names!), gives us pause to think about and remember that no one, not even Jesus, enters life alone. We all have a history that informs our present. As you read through the reading from Luke, you might also want to read Matthew 1:1-17, which also details Jesus’ genealogy.
Genealogy work is important. It helps you know your history and honor it and gives you the opportunity to either carry on traditions and traits or learn new ways of being in the world. My own family (the Sorenson side) can be traced back to Etnedal, Norway, 1664. Our history includes a relentless optimism and a penchant for picking farm land that turns out to be more rock than land.
Jesus had a family history too. Our scripture says he was about 30 when he began his work. That’s several decades of influencing and being influenced by those in his family and community. I wonder what he learned from his family, his neighbors, and his playmates? I wonder what others learned from him before the official start of his ministry? We learn from those around us, whether in person or not, and we have the gift of learning together.
As we remember our baptisms, may we also reflect on how those who came before us lived out their baptismal promises. Looking back, we can see how our ancestors lived out the call to pray, worship, service, and act in love. And looking back can inspire us as we look forward to how we will live wet in these days.
In Peace, Pastor Ruth
Let us pray:
Holy God, creator of light and giver of goodness, you anointed Jesus at his baptism with the Holy Spirit and revealed him as your beloved. Immerse us in your grace, and transform us by your Spirit, that we may follow after your Son and continually rejoice to be called children of God. Be with us this day as we seek to do your will, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Friend, Amen.