Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 Parents tend to be proud of their children, at least most of the time. We celebrate the big moments in their lives. It can be an award ceremony or a graduation. Cheryl and I would watch with amazement at Brett’s precision marching during half-time shows while playing his tenor sax. Of course, when he graduated from college, we were again tearfully proud. That’s what parents do. According to Luke, God can be a proud parent as well. Today is Baptism of Jesus Sunday, and this morning’s scripture readings speak of parental pride. In Isaiah 43, God says to Israel, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you: I have called you by name, you are mine” ( Isa 43:1 ). I hear in that message a bit of parental pride, especially since a few verses later, God tells the people of Israel they are loved and precious in God’s sight. God says something similar in Luke’s version of Jesus’ baptism. On this second Sunday of the new year, we celebrate Jesus’ baptism. Whil...
Sermons of a Disciples Preacher Ministering in Troy, Michigan