he artist, Tom duBois, introduced a dove to this scene to remind us of the work of the Holy Spirit in the baptism of Jesus. It is the same Holy Spirit, who brought to us our own faith, forgiveness, and victory over death in our baptisms.

“As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." Matt.3:16-17

The Spirit of God was present as the sacrificial lamb entered Jerusalem to secure the New Jerusalem, heaven. The Father was pleased with the Son whom he loved and who accepted this cup of suffering – the cross to secure our cup of salvation – the Lord’s Supper. This was the beginning of the Passion of Christ. The spotless life of this Lamb prepared Him for the purpose of the Incarnation, that is, God coming in the flesh to become the sacrifice for the sins of the world, to save his people.

Through baptism, the Holy Spirit dwells within each of God’s beloved children and brings faith, forgiveness and the victory over death. By his grace and through the gift of faith, the Heavenly Father says of you, “You are my beloved child. I love you. I am with you always, even to the end of the ages.”.