Matthew 3: Theophany!

You may have heard of "Epiphany" - the celebration twelve days after Christmas which celebrates the revelation of Jesus to the world (especially Gentiles).  This coincides with the arrival of the magi from the East which was described in Matthew 2.  Today's term - "Theophany" - is similar.  It means a striking revelation of God, or a physical manifestation of God.  It is often associated with Jesus' baptism as recounted in Matthew 3.

What makes the Baptism of Jesus a theophany?  In one dramatic moment, we have all three Persons of the Trinity at work: the Son is being baptized, the Spirit descends like a dove, and the voice of the Father is heard, proclaiming, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased."

Jesus' ministry thus begins with a holy commissioning at the Jordan River as He is baptized by John.  Now a time of spiritual preparation ensues as He is next led by the Spirit into the wilderness in Matthew 4.