The readings remind us of both the origins and meaning of Jesus. In a choice of two gospel passages for today, Luke gives Jesus' family tree and stretches it back to Adam, as the first human being. This reminds us that Jesus belongs to the whole human family and is a Brother to every person who ever existed. At the same time, as the Son of God, John the Baptist is not worthy even to undo the sandals of Jesus. Jesus is the One who comes to us through "the Spirit, water and blood". As He was baptised in the waters of the Jordan, the Spirit of the Father came down on Jesus. Later, in a supreme act of love, His blood will be poured out on the Cross for us. Through these acts God passes on to us His life which is also in the Son. "Anyone who has the Son has life." That is, all those who totally identify themselves with the vision and Way of Jesus share that life of God which the Son has. This is what faith in the Son means. Not just acceptance of statements about Him but a total identification of our whole selves with the person of Jesus and His Way.