St. John's Lutheran Church - Des Moines, Iowa

During the weeks immediately following the celebration of the nativity of our Lord, the church recognizes some of the key events in Jesus’ life and the beginning of his public ministry. When we hear the story of Jesus’ baptism, it reminds us of our own baptisms and the gifts we receive: adoption into the family of God and the blessings we receive from the Holy Spirit. In the readings for today, Jesus is recognized as the one who brings justice and light to all nations. With open ears, hearts, and minds, we listen for God’s voice coming from the heavens, and we rejoice in God’s presence in bread and wine.