BE YOUR AMAZING SELF IN 2026

The Baptism of the Lord

And a voice came from the heavens, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Mt. 3:13-17)

Today's reading from Matthew's gospel takes us into the moment when John baptized Jesus. Before God’s voice declared who Jesus was, John hesitated, feeling unworthy to perform the baptism ceremony. As Matthew recounts, John said, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you come to me?” His humility shines through as he stays in his lane, fully aware of Jesus’ greatness. In John's one sermon theme Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand, he preached, “I baptize you with water for repentance, but the one coming after me is mightier than I. I’m not worthy to carry his sandals. [Jesus] will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Mt. 3:11).

Hear the wisdom of one of our elders echoing from the ground, who once said, “If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.” Our ancestor Maya Angelou nailed it. John chose to stay in his lane, to be normal. How many times has God called us to do something incredible, and we sheepishly, politely respond, “Oh, that’s not for me”? When we act like that, following John’s example, we limit ourselves from doing something amazing. We remove ourselves from being blessed by the best, God our savior, who will never fail us.

This is when you put your dancing shoes on.

Jesus spoke to John, saying, “Allow it now, for it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Notice the pronoun “us.” Together, without hierarchy, Jesus isn’t acting as if he’s superior to John—though we know he is—but instead emphasizes that their shared action will fulfill all righteousness. One commentary explains that “to fulfill all righteousness” often refers to fulfilling prophecy, and that righteousness means moral conduct aligned with God’s will. Jesus was trying to get John to align himself with God's will. Once Jesus convinced John of the importance of baptizing him, John transformed from a normal prophet into an extraordinary one, baptizing Jesus. Humanity lowering the Divine into water, who has done that? Hallelujah!

In 2026, step away from the routine and embrace new paths. Last week, the Magi visited Jesus and, guided by a dream, chose a different route back to their homeland. Listening to the dream, they did what was not normal. Their decision not only ensured their safety but also enabled them to share the remarkable story of Jesus’ amazing birth.

In 2026, my friend embraced a beautiful thought: you and Jesus can share the same closeness that John had with Him, hearing God call you His beloved. With Jesus, we can hear God say, “I am pleased.” This year will be incredible, with Jesus walking and talking with you as you listen to the voice of God. With Him, we are truly amazing! Amen!

If you are always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be." Maya Angelou

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