Devotion

Based on Acts 2: 38-42

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

This week, we will discuss baptism and why it is an important step in our lives. Lyla Buck will be baptized, and her dad, our Moderator, Brook Buck, will renew his baptism! What a wonderful celebration!

Chalice Worship says this about the sacrament of Baptism:

Persons become disciples of Christ as they are moved by God's spirit to turn away from sin and evil, make a profession of faith, receive God's renewing grace through baptism, and thereby become one with the whole people of God.

What does Baptism signify?

The sacrament of baptism is an outward and visible sign of God's grace. Through baptism, a person is joined with the universal church, the body of Christ. In baptism, God works in us the power of forgiveness, the renewal of the spirit, and the knowledge of the call to be God's people always. Baptism with water and the Holy Spirit is the sign and seal of our common discipleship. Since baptism is God's gift, the Holy Spirit is called to be upon the water and those being baptized. The act of baptism also marks the beginning of a new life of discipleship with Christ, the human response to that gift.

This year, we have celebrated the Baptisms of Karry Crummett (March), Chris Gabe, Tristin Tang, and Bowen Tang (April), and now Brook and Lyla! What a glorious time of celebration!

Music this week:

• Everyday

• Lord, I Give You My Heart

• Holy Spirit Rain Down

• In the Light

• Living Water

• Take My Life