Meditation: Stepping In—Living the Dream of God

Texts: Isaiah 42:1–9 and Matthew 3:13–17

Begin by settling.

Take a few slow, deep breaths. Feel your feet on the ground and notice the ordinary space you inhabit—right here, right now.

Remember the story.

Christmas promised us God with us; Epiphany reveals what happens when that presence is made manifest—when heaven and earth meet, not just in story, but in the living of our lives.

Bring to mind the image of Jesus at the river.

He steps in—not to check a box, but to embody love, to stand in solidarity, to say yes to the Spirit’s call. He hears, “You are my beloved.”

Imagine those words spoken over you:

You are my beloved. I delight in you. I have called you by name.

Reflect:

• Where are you most tempted to stand on the sidelines—watching, but not stepping in?

• What is one relationship, situation, or corner of your life that could use a gentle act of justice, healing, or creativity this week?

• What would it look like to roll up your sleeves and join the Dream of God right where you are?

Receive this invitation:

You are not a spectator, but a participant. The same Spirit that moved over the waters, that filled the Servant, and descended on Jesus at his baptism, is at work in you—right now, in this moment.

Close with prayer:

Spirit of God,

Open my heart to your call.

Give me courage to move from watching to participating,

To embody love, justice, and healing

In the ordinary moments and the unexpected opportunities of this day.

May I know I am beloved, and help me live out that love for the sake of your dream.

Amen.