Focus

As you quiet yourself for this brief time, be willing to be open to God in whatever way that may take place.

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Read

Acts 2:37-47 (NRSV)

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” And he testified with many other arguments and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

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Reflect

I met Marissa while volunteering at a summer camp for children with special needs. She was a child, full of life, with a compassionate soul. Her love for the Lord was apparent as she worshiped and sang praises with enthusiasm. I noticed the pages of her Bible were worn as we spent time sharing some of our favorite scriptures. She was always eager to pray, and her words of simplicity moved mountains within my heart.

We were sitting by the pool. She asked me if I believed in Jesus. She told me it was important to be saved and asked me if I had been baptized. I said yes and explained that my baptism was by water being poured over my head when I was younger. It was only a slight hesitation before she pulled me into the water and exclaimed, “I will baptize you!” Right there she immersed me mimicking a process I’m sure she had seen many times at church. Then she hugged me and jumped up and down exclaiming that she was SO happy I had been baptized.

My heart exploded with love for God and this precious child. It was through her that I got a glimpse of the pure joy God feels each time one person comes to God. May we all remember our baptisms as celebrations on earth as well as in heaven.

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Pray

God who loves us, today and always may I rejoice in my baptism. Lead me to live my life as a reflection of my salvation. Guide me as I share my faith and bring others closer to you. Amen.

Go with God.