Everyone was expecting the Messiah to come soon, and they were eager to know whether John might be the Messiah. John answered their questions by saying, “I baptize you with water; but someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not even worthy to be his slave and untie the straps of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. He is ready to separate the chaff from the wheat with his winnowing fork. Then he will clean up the threshing area, gathering the wheat into his barn but burning the chaff with never-ending fire.” John used many such warnings as he announced the Good News to the people… One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus himself was baptized. As he was praying, the heavens opened, and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.”
Luke 3:15-22
O God, listen to my cry! Hear my prayer!From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the towering rock of safety,for you are my safe refuge, a fortress where my enemies cannot reach me.Let me live forever in your sanctuary, safe beneath the shelter of your wings!For you have heard my vows, O God. You have given me an inheritance reserved for those who fear your name.Add many years to the life of the king! May his years span the generations! May he reign under God’s protection Morever. May your unfailing love and faithfulness watch over him.Then I will sing praises to your name forever as I fulfill my vows each day.
Psalm 61
A gracious woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth. Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you.
Proverbs 11:16-17
Pasadena, my home town