Beloved

Last year, we looked at the stories of 3 women whose rendezvous’ by wells transformed their lives.  One of the ladies actually took to live broadcasting, beckoning an entire city to come and see the man. Dude must have rocked, can I get a witness? 

Today, the scene of our story line is in the water. What’s water got to do with love someone may ask? Let get into the word!

As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased!” Matthew 3:16-17

The first thing to note is that Jesus was obedient to the call. Although he was equal to God, he did not deviate from their original plan. Imagine if Jesus allowed John to talk him out of getting baptised, would the heavens have opened?  Could the Spirit have descended? Would the voice have spoken? Maybe, maybe not! I am sure John like some of the people you know meant well, but good intentions are neither here nor there – it could be one’s single ticket to heaven or hell. I couldn’t agree more with Tim Walberg when he says “good intentions can often lead to unintended consequences”. People do crazy things for love and it is even more difficult when being influenced by family, a friend or partner. However, It is important that you stay true to yourself and life purposes. There’s nothing wrong with saying ‘NO’ every now and again. That’s tough love!

The second key point is that the heavens opened. Open heavens allow for divine exchange – heaven’s resources to enrich the earth – for human weaknesses to be exchanged with God’s strength – for the supernatural to invade and transform the natural as in Jacob’s dream. Isaiah speaks of the impact of rain and snow on the soil. Three things happen: first it waters, secondly it causes grains to grow, and thirdly it produces on 2 levels – seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. What does this mean for you and I? Open heavens can release favours, abundance and blessings to cancel out disfavour, lack and any residual curse on our lives. One of the ways an open heaven is activated is through obedience. Another is willingness.  During the days of Noah, the bursting of the deep springs triggered the opening of heaven’s floodgates. This speaks of desire, thirst and hunger. How badly do you want God? How deeply do you yearn for his presence? What lengths are you willing to go? To have this moment, Jesus walked to the river and found John. He went all the way! The power of devotion is incredible. When you wholeheartedly commit to serving your partner, you’ll be amazed how much of your needs would be met without you demanding. Not only would you be watered, but you’ll also bud, flourish and produce.

The next thing that happened is that the Holy Ghost descended and rested on Jesus. This is remarkable because the first time we see him in action, he was hovering, moving…literally surfing but this time, he took the form of a dove, alighted, perched and rested. No doubt God was with Jesus, but he was about to embark on a journey into the unknown –  the wilderness (where he’d never been) and to fast (something he probably hadn’t done before) and ultimately die (which is an experience he’d never had). The dove-like descent of the spirit was a symbol of peace to fortify Jesus even against the turbulences ahead. It also symbolized companionship and touch. The ministry of reconciliation was a solo mission but Jesus had some support along the way. We all need somebody – a shoulder to lean on – someone to talk to and share our burdens with. The strongest, most independent, and introverted of us do. So reach out and encourage someone – it may mean you getting out of your comfort zone.

Lastly, scripture says that a voice spoke from heaven. I don’t know about you but when I am at crossroads, in a tight corner or a low place, I need a voice from above. The psalmist speaks of looking to the hills for help and being lifted to a rock when overwhelmed. Herein, there seems to be a Trinity party as in the beginning;  only Jesus is listening while the father is doing the speaking with the Holy Spirit resting on him. The voice from heaven occurred at three key points in Jesus’ ministry: at his baptism, at his transfiguration, and before the cross – emphasizing the importance of God’s word. The word is a lamp, light and life; it transforms, empowers, preserves, guides, heals and delivers.

Have you ever been in love with somebody but it seemed your affair was secret until your partner started introducing you to friends, family and colleagues. Boy, did your head swirl?  I can only imagine how Jesus felt as the father spoke about him: This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. The word ‘beloved’ in Greek means to be well or dearly loved, highly esteemed, a favourite and worthy of love. It is someone you cherish, value and respect. A beloved is your sweetheart, heartthrob, babe, or whatever you call them. By publicly announcing Jesus as his beloved, the father also reveals their bond and intimacy, and the extent. He went on to say he was well pleased in Jesus. Look at the adjectives the father uses to describe how he feels about the son. Jesus is dearly loved and well revelled. What are you saying to your partner? Are you calling them names that will uplift or dispirit them? The power of death and life lie in your tongue. Be creative and say something sweet but if you are struggling, look them in the eye, imagine a perfect state, and then prophesy!

I am concious of the fact that not everybody has someone to celebrate valentines with. You are not unloved. You have been accepted in the beloved which means the father loves you as he loves Jesus. Relish in that love today and respond however appropriate.

Many waters cannot quench love, nor can rivers drown it. If a man tried to buy love with all his wealth, his offer would be utterly scorned. My beloved spoke and said to me, “Arise, my darling, my beautiful one, come with me. He brings me to the banquet hall, and everyone can see how much he loves me. Song of Solomon 8:7;2:10; 2:4

Other Valentine Editions
Love at the Upper Room – You Showed Me
Come and see the man!
Love conquers all…
Will you be mine?
His Love, My Salvation
Because He Loved Me
Endless Love
You qualify!
I Love You