Mark 1:9-15 is one of the Bible readings associated with the start of Lent in the Christian calendar, it recounts the baptism and temptation of Jesus, key events marking the beginning of his public ministry. Here, we witness the divine affirmation of Jesus’ identity, his submission to God’s will, and his victory over temptation.

The passage begins with Jesus coming from Nazareth to the Jordan River to be baptized by John the Baptist. John’s baptism was a symbol of repentance, but Jesus, being sinless, didn’t need to repent. Nevertheless, he chose to undergo this baptism to fulfil all righteousness and to identify with humanity in our need for redemption. As Jesus emerged from the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit descended upon him like a dove. This moment signifies the inauguration of Jesus’ ministry and the divine affirmation of his identity as the beloved Son of God.

Immediately following his baptism, the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. This period of temptation lasted forty days, mirroring the forty years the Israelites spent in the wilderness. Jesus faced three temptations from Satan: to turn stones into bread to satisfy his hunger, to test God’s protection by throwing himself off the pinnacle of the temple, and to worship Satan in exchange for dominion over all the kingdoms of the world. In each temptation, Jesus responded with scripture, demonstrating his obedience to God’s will and his authority over temptation.

These temptations represent fundamental challenges to Jesus’ identity and mission. The temptation to turn stones into bread reflects the temptation to prioritize physical needs over spiritual ones, but Jesus affirmed the importance of spiritual sustenance by quoting scripture: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.”

The temptation to throw himself off the pinnacle of the temple challenges Jesus to test God’s faithfulness, but Jesus countered by affirming that one should not put God to the test.

Finally, the temptation to worship Satan in exchange for worldly power challenges Jesus’ allegiance and mission, but Jesus reaffirmed his commitment to worship and serve God alone, quoting scripture: “You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.”

After successfully overcoming these temptations, Jesus began his ministry in Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God’s Kingdom. He declared, “The time is fulfilled, and the Kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” This message marked the urgency of repentance and faith in light of the Kingdom’s arrival through Jesus’ ministry.

Through Jesus’ example, we are encouraged to resist temptation, remain obedient to God, and actively participate in the proclamation of the Kingdom of God.

Light is fascinating and mysterious. It travels at incredible speed, yet still takes about eight minutes to reach us from the Sun. It can be understood as a particle, yet also behaves as a wave. But enough of the science lesson. Light profoundly affects our mood and has been a powerful metaphor throughout the ages in all human cultures.

In the poetic opening of the Bible, God said, “Let light shine out of darkness.” In the New Testament, light represents the new creation or new birth as the darkness of sin is dispelled by the light of Jesus, as he brings the light of the knowledge of God’s glory into the human heart.

This brings us neatly to one of this Sunday’s Bible readings in the Church of England’s Lectionary. In 2 Corinthians 4:3–6, the Apostle Paul offers profound insights into the nature of the Christian life, particularly concerning the transformative power of the Gospel message and the spiritual dynamics at play in the hearts of believers and unbelievers alike.

Paul begins by acknowledging the veiled nature of the Gospel message to those who are perishing. He describes how the minds of unbelievers are blinded by the god of this world, referring to Satan or the forces of evil that work to obscure the truth of the Gospel. This spiritual blindness prevents them from recognising the glory of Christ, which shines forth in the Gospel message. Despite the clarity and universality of the Gospel’s offer of salvation, those who remain in unbelief are unable to grasp its significance due to the spiritual blindness that envelops them.

Paul then elaborates on the spiritual battle between light and darkness that is inherent in the proclamation of the Gospel. He asserts that the god of this world has blinded the minds of those who do not believe, thereby obstructing their ability to perceive the light of the Gospel. This blindness is not merely a physical incapacity but a spiritual impediment that stems from the pervasive influence of sin and spiritual forces opposed to God’s truth. As a result, unbelievers remain ensnared in darkness, unable to comprehend the beauty and significance of the Gospel message that offers freedom and reconciliation with God.

In contrast to the spiritual blindness of unbelievers, Paul highlights the proclamation of Jesus Christ as Lord and the work of spreading the Gospel. He affirms that it is not about preaching oneself but about proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord and oneself as a servant for Jesus’ sake. This underscores the humility and selflessness required in sharing the Gospel, focusing not on personal glory but on magnifying the name of Christ. Believers are called to participate in the ongoing mission of making Christ known to the world, recognising that their role is one of service and stewardship in advancing the Kingdom of God.

Paul further emphasises the transformative power of God’s light in the darkness of human hearts. He draws upon the imagery of the creation narrative from Genesis, where God spoke light into existence out of darkness. Similarly, God shines his light into the hearts of believers, illuminating the knowledge of his glory displayed in the face of Jesus Christ. This divine illumination awakens spiritual understanding and leads to the recognition of Christ as the embodiment of God’s glory and grace. Through the Gospel message, God initiates a process of renewal and transformation in the lives of believers, dispelling the darkness of sin and ignorance and replacing it with the radiant light of his truth and love.

On this last Sunday before Lent, 2 Corinthians 4:3–6 offers a compelling portrayal of the Christian life as one marked by the transformative power of the Gospel, the spiritual battle against darkness, and the call to humble service and proclamation of Jesus Christ as Lord. It reminds us of the urgency and importance of our role in sharing the Good News with others, trusting in the illuminating work of God’s Spirit to bring about transformation and renewal in the hearts and minds of those who are lost in darkness.

May the light of Jesus in our hearts shine through our lives into (what often seems like) an increasingly dark world.

Before writing my Sunday devotionals I always look up the Lectionary Bible readings for that day, even if I don’t use them. They are the set passages for use in the Church of England, and they usually have a common theme.

For the Second Sunday before Lent the readings are Proverbs 8:1-4 & 22–31, Psalm 104:26-37, Colossians 1:15–20, and John 1.1–14. You may like to read these passages in your Bible or by clicking the links to read them on Bible Gateway in the New International Version (UK). For this devotional I’m focussing on the last two readings.

Colossians 1:15-20 begins by stating that Jesus is the image of the invisible God and the firstborn over all creation. This means that Jesus is the exact representation of God and has authority over all things. Jesus created all things, both in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones, powers, rulers, or authorities. This means that Jesus is not only the creator of all things, but also has authority over all things.

Jesus is then described as the head of the church, which is his body, meaning that Jesus has authority over the church and is the source of its life. Through Jesus, God has reconciled all things to himself, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through Jesus’ blood shed on the cross. Jesus’ death on the cross was how God made peace with humanity and reconciled all things to himself.

John 1:1-14 (deliberately echoing the beginning of Bible) describes Jesus as the Word, who was with God, and was God from the very beginning. This Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Jesus, who was previously divine and eternal, became a human being and lived among us, revealing the glory of God to humankind.

Let’s reflect on Jesus: The Word of God, the creator of all things, the source of life and light for humankind, and the one who became flesh and dwelt among us to reveal the glory of God. Or, as The Message paraphrase puts it, the Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighbourhood.

Luke 2:22-40 narrates an event in the life of Jesus as a young child, taking place shortly after his birth. This passage offers insights into the religious customs of the time and introduces characters such as Simeon and Anna, who play significant roles in recognising and acknowledging the infant Jesus.

The passage begins with Mary and Joseph bringing the baby Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem, as was customary for Jewish parents to present their firstborn sons to the Lord. This act was in accordance with the law of Moses, reinforcing the devout nature of Jesus’ earthly parents. The law required a sacrifice to be offered during this presentation, and Mary and Joseph bring a pair of doves or two young pigeons, a provision allowed for those who couldn’t afford a lamb.

At the temple, they encounter Simeon, a devout and righteous man who’d been waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he wouldn’t die before seeing the Messiah. When Mary and Joseph bring Jesus into the temple, Simeon, guided by the Spirit, takes the child into his arms, and blesses God, recognising Jesus as the fulfilment of God’s promise. Simeon’s words express his readiness to depart in peace since he’s now seen the salvation of the Lord.

In addition to Simeon, a prophet named Anna is present in the temple. She’s described as an elderly widow who spent her days and nights in worship and fasting. Upon seeing Jesus, Anna praises God and speaks about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

The story is a rich narrative that highlights several themes. Firstly, it emphasises the faithful adherence of Mary and Joseph to the religious customs of their time, highlighting their obedience to the Law. Secondly, the encounter with Simeon and Anna underscores the prophetic fulfilment found in Jesus, recognising him as the long-awaited Messiah. Simeon’s acknowledgment that Jesus will bring both salvation and opposition foreshadows the complexities of Jesus’ earthly mission.

The passage also contributes to the broader theological narrative in the Gospel of Luke, which consistently portrays Jesus as the fulfilment of God’s promises to Israel and as a bringer of salvation to both Jews and Gentiles. The inclusion of these devout and spiritually sensitive individuals serves to reinforce the idea that Jesus’ arrival isn’t just a local event, but a momentous occasion with eternal implications.

Despite the profound significance of this story, here’s simple human encounter. It’s on this mundane level that we need to be like Simeon. We need to take Jesus into our arms, embrace him close to our hearts, and allow his spirit to infuse our souls and daily lives.

Today in the Christian calendar we celebrate The Baptism of Christ, depicted in the wonderful painting by Piero della Francesca in the National Gallery, London.

You can read the story in the Bible here: Luke 3:15-22

The Baptism of Jesus is a significant event in Christian theology, symbolising purification, and the beginning of his public ministry. According to the New Testament, specifically the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, John the Baptist baptized Jesus in the River Jordan. John initially hesitated, recognizing Jesus’ divinity, but Jesus insisted, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling all righteousness.

As Jesus emerged from the water, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove. A voice from heaven proclaimed, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This divine declaration underscores Jesus’ unique relationship with God and marks the initiation of his earthly mission.

The baptism represents Jesus’ identification with humanity, foreshadowing his sacrificial role for the redemption of sin. It serves as a model for believers, emphasizing the importance of repentance, spiritual renewal, and commitment to God.

The baptism a pivotal moment in the Trinity, illustrating the coexistence of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The event is celebrated in various Christian traditions through the sacrament of baptism, where believers undergo water immersion as a symbol of spiritual rebirth and union with Christ. The baptism of Jesus remains a central theme in Christian teachings, embodying divine approval and the mission of salvation.

There are several themes and traditions related to the Advent wreath, today we light the Christmas candle, illustrated here with a single white candle.

The first candle in the Advent wreath symbolises HOPE and is known as the Prophet’s Candle. The second candle represents FAITH and is called Bethlehem’s Candle. The third candle symbolises JOY and is called the Shepherd’s Candle. The fourth candle represents PEACE and is called the Angel’s Candle.

This fifth candle represents LOVE and is called Christ’s Candle. In the busy time of Advent and Christmas it’s important to pause and remember the great gift of love that God gave to the world when Jesus was born.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognise him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:1-14

Love is like a candle shining in a dark place. As we reflect on the light from this candle, we celebrate the love we have in Christ.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the greatest gift of all that came on the first Christmas, a gift of love wrapped in the vulnerability of a baby, a gift later wrapped in the scars of our human sin on the cross, a gift of love that conquered death. On this Christmas Day, we thank you for loving us enough to send Jesus, fill our hearts and minds with the significance of that truth. In the precious name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Today is the Fourth Sunday in Advent. The season of Advent is the first period of reflection in the Christian year, the second being Lent.

The first candle in the Advent wreath symbolises HOPE and is known as the Prophet’s Candle. The second candle represents FAITH and is called Bethlehem’s Candle. The third candle symbolises JOY and is called the Shepherd’s Candle. The fourth candle represents PEACE and is called the Angel’s Candle. The prophet Isaiah spoke of the coming Prince of Peace. The angels announced that Jesus came to bring peace, to bring people closer to God and to each other.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and for ever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:6-7

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.’ Luke 2:13-14

When Jesus came he taught people the importance of being peacemakers. He said that those who make peace shall be called the children of God. When Christ comes he brings us peace, and everlasting peace when he comes again. We light the candle of peace to remind us that Jesus is the Prince of Peace and that through him peace is found.

Peace is like a light shining in a dark place. As we reflect on the light from this candle, we celebrate the peace we have in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Light of the World, the prophets said you would bring peace and save your people from trouble. Give peace in our hearts this Christmas. We ask this as we wait for you to come again, that you would remain present with us. Help us today, and every day to worship you, to hear your word, and to do your will by sharing your peace with each other. We ask this in the name of the one who was born in Bethlehem. Amen.

Today is the Third Sunday in Advent. The season of Advent is the first period of reflection in the Christian year, the second being Lent.

The first candle in the Advent wreath symbolises HOPE and is known as the Prophet’s Candle. The second candle represents FAITH and is called Bethlehem’s Candle. The third candle symbolises JOY and is called the Shepherd’s Candle. To their great joy, the angels announced that Jesus came for humble, unimportant people like them, too. We light the candle of joy to remind us that when Jesus is born in us we have joy, and that through him there can be eternal joy in our hearts and lives.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields near by, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.’ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favour rests.’ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. Luke 2:8-20

Joy is like a light shining in a dark place. As we reflect on the light from this candle, we celebrate the joy we have in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Thank you God for the joy you give us. We ask that as we wait for all your promises to come true, and for Christ to come again, that you would remain present with us. Help us today, and every day, to worship you, to hear your word, and to do your will by sharing your joy with each other. We ask this in the name of the one who was born in Bethlehem. Amen.