Not Worthy – Mark 1:7-11 Reflection
Have you ever felt not worthy enough to be around someone important? Have you ever had to do something that many people would potentially critique? In these times, wasn’t it joyful when it was all over, even if it did not go perfectly? If so, then you have a vague idea of how Saint John feels preparing the way in his heart and suggesting we do the same for God to enter. Our task is to open our hearts to the same cleansing with Jesus’s life-giving water and let the Holy Spirit guide us. We can be like Jesus because the Spirit descends on us to do as the Father pleases, as we are sons or daughters of God. If we listen to Trinity’s voice, our open hearts will prepare us and give us what we need to be present and do for others.
The Baptism of Jesus by James Tissot. (full-resolution image of painting).
More details are available on the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Christmastide Reflections
Mark 1:7-11 – Scripture*
7 He proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. 8 I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
The Baptism of Jesus
9 In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. 11 And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.”
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Mark 1:7-11 Reflection – Not Worthy.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate these types of expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions.
Attributions
*This site has permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible Mark 1 passage.
The Immersive Prayer website follows the guidelines for image web use at the Brooklyn Museum and the Jewish Museum websites.
Page and discussion group on these Lectio Divina daily Gospel Readings.
Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.
Other affiliations
Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Not Worthy
