Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” ~ Mark 1:14-15
Jesus is ready to go. He's been claimed and told he is loved. He's faced evil and won.
He's been commissioned to do the work for which he's been called.
We think of commissioning often in regards to military service. We also know commissioning was something Jesus would do with his disciples.
In both those instances there is a clear directive as to what the commissioning is for.
Here, Jesus shows that he knows exactly what he is called to do.
Turn us back toward God. Help us to see the Good News God offers through that relationship.
There will of course be other testing ahead for Jesus. Just because one is commissioned doesn't mean smooth sailing ahead. Those in the military know that, and Jesus and his disciples would learn it time and again.
We are commissioned as well. Our baptism comes with a promise - loved by God - but also a call.
Live as God's faithful people: in community, in love, in service. We are called to proclaim God's love and God's peace to the world in word and in action.
Look back in the Book or Worship or online on the ELCA website for the baptismal promises that are made. Who made those promises for you?
How do you live out your call (your commissioning) as one of God's faithful children?
Gracious God, help me to live into my call as your child, loving and serving as you loved and served. Amen