Luke 3:3 John
went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance
for the forgiveness of sins. (NIV)
Recently, I baptized a father and his children as the
mother, who was already baptized, stood next to them. It was a very beautiful
ceremony and was watched by some of their church friends in the sanctuary. I
felt privileged to have been asked to do this for them and it reminded me of
the mysterious way that the Holy Spirit connects Christian families to one
another. As their church friends came forward to greet the family after the
baptisms, I witnessed an outpouring of joy and love. It was a blessing that I
will carry in my heart for the rest of my life.
When John the Baptist ministered to people in the region
of the Jordan River, he emphasized their need to repent and be baptized. He did
this to help people who were struggling with their sins and who needed a brand
new start. The best way to do this was repent and then be ritualistically
cleansed in the River Jordan. For those who experienced it, their baptism must
have been both a liberating and joyful occasion. As they emerged from the
waters of the Jordan, they must have felt as though their life had started all
over again which would have been a great feeling. To be fully cleared of sin and
totally loved by God would have been an exceptional experience. God’s grace is
immense and whether a baptism takes place
in the River Jordan or a church sanctuary, the effect is the same: a
restored person becomes a welcomed child in God’s Kingdom.
Point to ponder
When have I felt
God’s grace in my life? How have I shared that gift with other people?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for the gift of baptism
and its wonderful power which restores us to God’s love and favor. Be with us
and bless us this day. In Your Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
John Stuart is the pastor
of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. You can read the church
website at this link: www.erinpresbyterian.org.
Today’s image is one of
John’s stained glass designs called ‘Baptismal Waters.’ If you would like to
view a larger version, please click this link: Waters.
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