What if the encouraging voice within you is God speaking? In this episode, we reflect on the Baptism of Jesus through an Ethiopian mural from Axum and Luke’s account of divine affirmation. As we gaze and pray, we listen for the words of love and calling God may be speaking to us today.

Luke 3:21-22

Use this guide for prayer and contemplation. Read slowly, pausing as needed for silence and reflection.

Opening

Take a slow breath in.

Let your shoulders soften as you breathe out.

Feel the support beneath you—chair, floor, ground.

For a moment, simply be here.

Reflection on Contemplative Prayer

Today, we listen for the voice that blesses.

As you gaze at the image of Jesus’ baptism, allow yourself to be there—in the crowd, near the river, close enough to see water poured and to sense prayer rising.

So often we are willing to hear what diminishes us, but slow to trust what encourages us.

Let these words guide your listening:

“We must listen to what is supporting us.
We must listen to what is encouraging us.
We must listen to what is urging us.
We must listen to what is alive in us.”

Let us open ourselves to the positive voices within us that we have ignored, and listen for God in them.

Scripture

Luke 3:21–22 (The Inclusive Bible)
When all the people were baptized, Jesus also came to be baptized. And while Jesus was praying, the skies opened and the Holy Spirit descended on the Anointed One in visible form, like a dove.

A voice from heaven said, “You are my own, my Beloved.
On you my favor rests.”

Holy Spirit, open our ears to love. Just as God spoke support and encouragement over Jesus, God has words of support and encouragement for you.

Artwork for Prayerful Reflection

Baptism of Jesus, Enda Yesus Church, Axum, Ethiopia

Gaze deeply at the image. See John pouring water over Jesus’ head as they stand in the river.

Notice John’s cross staff, and Jesus’ arms crossed like one who is buried—remembering that we die in baptism and rise out of the waters into new life.

Reflection Questions

As you look at this baptism scene, what do you notice first?

What thoughts or feelings are you experiencing as you gaze?

If you place yourself in the crowd, where are you standing—near the water, at a distance, or close beside Jesus?

When you hear the words, “You are my own, my Beloved,” what part of you wants to receive them—and what part resists?

What inner voice has been supporting you lately—quietly, steadily?

What inner voice has been encouraging you—calling you toward life?

What words of affirmation does God share with you today?

Is there a detail in the painting that helps you clarify what God is saying?

How do God’s words of affirmation encourage you to serve God and others?

What would it look like to claim these personal affirmations—and cherish them this week?

Closing

Beloved God, help us resist the urge to discount the good and gentle words you speak. Teach us to accept them, and to live from them—rising into new life and steady service. Amen.

Ephesians 2:10
“You are God’s work of art, created in Christ Jesus to do the good things God created you to do.”