Scripture
John 1: 29-34 (ESV)
The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness: “I saw the Spirit descend from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but he who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”
AI Prompt
Design a surreal, ethereal image where a white lamb stands in a small stream, its head slightly bowed, with water gently dripping from its head. At the very top of the vertical composition, place a dove made of light or mist, embodying an ethereal, spirit-like presence to the fullest extent. This dove should be near the top edge of the image, appearing as if it's descending from the heavens, glowing with a soft, otherworldly light. The scene combines natural elements with a touch of the supernatural, set against a tranquil backdrop where the stream flows gently, surrounded by soft, muted colors that underscore the surreal, peaceful mood.
Devotional Reflection
Why is Jesus coming to John for baptism? Because, as John cries out, Jesus is the Lamb of God who has come to take away the sin of the world. By submitting himself to John's baptism, Jesus--the sinless one and the perfect Lamb--is identifying himself with sinners. In the baptismal water that is poured upon the Lamb's head, he is becoming the sin-bearer. He has been anointed by the Spirit for this purpose. The Lamb will carry those sins to the cross where his blood will be spilt on that altar and where his body will be wholly consumed by the fire of God's wrath toward sinners.