I may have to read this sermon again next year. It was filled with rich imagery and powerful sacramental statements. Here are a few from Luther’s sermon preached on the Epiphany of our Lord, January 6th, 1534:
“Christ is holier even than baptism, yet still allows himself to be baptized.”
“But God in heaven poured himself out when Christ was baptized.”
“There is no longer a dividing line between God and us, for he has descended into the {baptismal} water.”
“Therefore we should have high regard for this festival. To some degree it is about the wise men. But there is something much, much more important here: the real “three kings”–the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.”
“Water becomes a precious ointment and medication because God has stirred himself into it.”