Sunday Sermon: Jesus Revealed to the World
“9 At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan.
10 As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.
11 And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
12 At once the Spirit sent him out into the desert,
13 and he was in the desert forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.”
The church calendar transitions from Christmas into Epiphany—literally the “revealing” or “manifestation” of Jesus Christ to the world. Biblical events such as the visit of the Magi, Jesus’ presentation at the temple, His baptism by John, and His first miracle at the wedding in Cana each mark a new revelation of Christ’s identity. In particular, Jesus’ baptism stands out as His public appearance, where the heavens open and a divine voice affirms Him as the Beloved Son of God.
Although Jesus’ baptism is a moment of divine approval, it leads immediately into a season of testing in the wilderness. Jesus faces loneliness, hunger, and temptation. Yet He endures because He never forgets the fundamental truth proclaimed at His baptism: “You are my Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased.” This voice from heaven grounds Jesus’ identity and mission.
This same weekend also commemorates Korean American Day (January 13), marking the arrival of the first Korean immigrants to the United States in 1903. Much like the wilderness experience, early Korean immigrants faced daunting hardships—low wages, harsh working conditions, and unfamiliar surroundings. Yet many of them, especially those who were Christians, found solidarity and support in church communities. Their faith helped them maintain hope and persevere under difficult circumstances, reflecting the same reliance on God’s assurance that Jesus demonstrated in the wilderness.
From the earliest days, Korean immigrants built their communal life around the church. Worship, prayer, and fellowship became sources of spiritual nourishment, cultural preservation, and practical support. This mirrors the Pilgrims’ arrival centuries earlier, as both groups—though separated by time and circumstance—demonstrated how faith communities can shape identity, culture, and values in a new land. In both stories, recognizing God’s providence and love was key to flourishing despite trials.
Through Jesus’ baptism and the testimony of immigrant ancestors, believers are reminded that our true identity rests in God’s affirmation: we are beloved. Whatever new chapters or “epiphanies” unfold—whether in personal life, church life, or larger cultural stories—our calling remains to cling to the truth that God delights in us. Standing on this foundation, we can face temptations, transitions, or challenges with confidence that God’s grace is sufficient.
As the Epiphany season points to the revelation of Christ, and Korean American Day highlights a historical moment of faith-filled endurance, we look toward the future with hope. We remember that God’s mighty acts continue—shaping our personal journeys, our church life, and our communal stories. Rooted in the gospel, we devote ourselves anew to serving others, building up the body of Christ, and sharing God’s love so that more people experience the transforming power of being called children of God.
Prayer: Gracious God, we thank You for revealing Your Son to the world in love and power, and for reminding us that we, too, are Your beloved children. As we reflect on Jesus’ baptism and the faith legacy of the first Korean immigrants, grant us courage to face our own wilderness seasons. Teach us to rest in Your affirmation so we may serve You faithfully. Strengthen our church, our community, and our hearts, that we might share Your love and shine the light of Christ wherever we go. Amen.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)