John knew exactly who he was and did not seem to need to be anything more or less than that. From this secure self-identity he could identify the CHRIST who is to come. In lining up for baptism by John like a sinner, Jesus set aside all exemption for himself. He presented himself to someone who would be martyed for his convictions. This was a commitment to a non-violent struggle that would win salvation for all of us.

The Jordan scene was also one in which the TRINITARIAN presence of God was revealed. The humanity of Jesus was affirmed by His FATHER and the SPIRIT rested on Him at the beginning of His mission. Jesus would become powerless like John and allow His enemies to apparently destroy Him in the Passion and the Crucifixion. In the early centuries Baptism was a passport to martyrdom. Today as Christians we experience a struggle to live up to our convictions. We have become victims of power, prestige, possessions...and we need prayer to let go of our grasping.