The message introduces Jesus’ story through the narrative of John the Baptist in Matthew’s Gospel. John prepares the way for Jesus, emphasizing repentance and contrasting true righteousness with religious hypocrisy. Jesus asked to be baptized by John, demonstrating his willingness to align with God’s will and his humility in serving others.

In turn, God’s affirmation of Jesus as His beloved Son reinforces Jesus’ authority and mission to bring salvation to humanity. Jesus’ presence brings life and restoration to the darkest places. We can be restored through a relationship with Jesus, which starts with recognizing our sin and leads to an experience of the transformative and overwhelming love of God.