Today’s scripture: Luke 3:21-22 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Pam Beutler):
Can you remember when you were baptized? I can’t remember the first time — I was three. My parents had moved from a predominantly German neighborhood in Chicago to an Irish Parish on the near north side. Once settled in the parish, my father’s dear friend, Fr. Siedle baptized me — late for a Catholic.
The second time, I stood before my congregation and accepted Jesus. Why a second time? This was my altar call, my next step in my spiritual walk. One of God’s gifts to us is our free will. Free will is our earthly challenge each day, to stay firm in our walk in faith. Free will brings all sorts of responsibilities with it — the conscious act of choice, the constant battle of the duality of our nature
“I baptize you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1:8
Accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior brought gifts of the Holy Spirit which were renewed in me. My gifts actually shifted to better serve my church family. Each time I watch a baptism, I am overcome with emotion. For I know, this was not because of some church dogma but by choice.
A simple act becomes a powerful statement of personal faith and destiny. The road we travel as a disciple of the Risen Lord is marked with stumbling blocks, detours, questions of faith and a vision of a better life to come.
Use the tools given you by the Holy Spirit. You will be guided and successful in your endeavors. They help us interconnect with one other. Use the gift of free will to help others who need a hand to continue on their journey, when their vision is clouded or their decisions were ill advised. Your baptism united you together with all Christians, as a church, with one goal.
Take the time now to think about the first time you made that decision to come to God and live by the teaching and example of God’s Son.
Thought for the day: What choices have you made? How have the gifts you received from God blessed you? In your next conversation with God, show your thanks for all God has given and made available to us as children.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.