I must admit that Mark has always been my least favorite of the four gospels. However, today’s account brings out something that isn’t brought out in Matthew. When Matthew tells the story of Jesus’ baptism, he tells us that God the Father spoke from heaven to the people that were there and said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased” (Matt. 3:17). It makes sense. Matthew wants those who are reading his gospel to know just who Jesus is. However, Mark’s account is much more personal for Jesus. Rather than the crowd hearing the voice, God’s affirmation is directed only to Jesus. He hears, “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (1:11).
God the Fathers affirmation of Jesus helps us to connect with Jesus by seeing his true humanity. So often we hold Jesus on such a high level in our minds that we forget that he was every bit as much human as you and I are today. He was a person who faced the same temptations that you and I face, yet was without sin. He also was a person who needed and longed to hear his Father’s affirmation.
One of our consistent Lenten themes is repentance. We must take it seriously. However, we also have the tendency to beat ourselves up and to hold our sins over our heads for years to come rather than to accept God’s forgiveness. When you read this story, don’t forget that our heavenly Father is an affirming father. Just as Jesus was reminded of his Father’s love for him before his own 40 day journey into the wilderness, may you be reaffirmed of God’s love for you on this Lenten journey.
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