Scripture Study for

The reading from Isaiah comes from the post-Exilic period, a time  when Israel was tempted to question God’s continued commitment  to the relationship after the history of infidelity that led to the Exile.  Isaiah assures that God remains committed to the relationship,  if only Israel would turn to God (“Heed me . . .”) and accept the  offer of forgiveness. Sandwiched between two such calls to Israel is  the assurance that the restoration of Israel will be such that other  nations will be drawn to Israel because of her generously forgiving  and restoring God. The graciousness of God toward Israel will act  as a magnet, drawing many others to “seek the Lord while he may  be found.” 

The thought of the reading from the First Letter of John does not  proceed in a straight line. The circular, intertwining language of the  passage reflects the close and reciprocal connection between love of  God and others, both of which find their center in faith in Jesus as  Christ. This faith is grounded in the testimony of the Spirit, the water  and the blood— “the testimony of God.” The water and the blood very  likely refer specifically to the blood and water that came from Jesus’  side (John 19:34), although the imagery can also include Baptism  and Eucharist. The point of the passage is that God has testified that  Jesus is the Christ, begotten by God, and all those who believe God’s  testimony are also begotten by God, with all this entails. 

The Gospel reading is remarkable for its close association of  baptism with the Holy Trinity. John has already proclaimed that the  One who is to come after him will baptize with the Holy Spirit,  who will sanctify the baptized and shape them into the people of  God being gathered around Christ. Now Jesus comes to be baptized  himself. Immediately the Holy Spirit descends upon him, reflecting  back on John’s comment about Jesus baptizing with the Spirit. The  scene concludes with the Father’s own voice announcing who Jesus  is. Thus the Son, sent by the Father, is sealed with and becomes the  agent of the Holy Spirit, the power of God in the world.