Scripture: “Jesus replied, ‘Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then John consented.” (Matthew 3:15, NIV)
When John the Baptist stood at the Jordan River, preparing to baptize Jesus, he hesitated. John knew who Jesus was—the sinless Son of God—and felt unworthy to perform such an act. Baptism was a sign of repentance, a cleansing from sin, and John couldn’t fathom why the spotless Lamb needed it. Yet Jesus insisted, not because He needed cleansing, but because He chose to identify with us. His words, “Let it be so now,” reveal a profound truth: righteousness isn’t just about perfection; it’s about obedience and alignment with God’s will.
Jesus didn’t need baptism for His own sake. He stepped into those waters for ours—taking on the role of a servant, modeling humility, and setting the stage for the ultimate act of righteousness on the cross. In that moment, He showed us that fulfilling God’s plan often means laying aside our own sense of what’s “necessary” and trusting His bigger purpose.
What about us? How often do we hesitate when God calls us to obey, thinking we know better or that the task seems beneath us? Maybe it’s forgiving someone who doesn’t deserve it, serving in a way that feels unglamorous, or stepping out in faith when the path doesn’t make sense. Jesus’ example challenges us to let go of our pride and say, “Let it be so now,” trusting that God’s righteousness unfolds through our obedience.
Reflection:
Is there an area in your life where God is asking you to obey, even if it doesn’t make sense to you?
How can Jesus’ humility inspire you to trust God’s purpose today?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for Jesus, who humbled Himself to fulfill Your will. Help me to follow His example, setting aside my own understanding to obey You fully. Show me where I need to say, “Let it be so now,” and give me the strength to trust Your plan. Amen.