February 22, 2016

“…and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also – not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a clear conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ…” -1 Peter 3:21 I believe Jesus’ whole life was flowing from his baptism. Of course, we believe in Christianity that Jesus never sinned; he never made a mistake. So, why was Jesus baptized? Was Jesus born again when he was baptized? Was he forgiven of his sins? Was he repenting of something? No. He was being obedient to the Father as he was beginning his earthly ministry. And, just as that happened, the skies opened up and God said, “You are my beloved Son in whom I’m well pleased. I take pleasure in you.” We have to remember, friends, that this is the most important part of our baptism. For us as sinners, we’re forgiven of

“You have been a refuge for the poor, a refuge for the needy in their distress, a shelter from the storm and a shade from the heat. For the breath of the ruthless is like a storm driving against a wall. -Isaiah 25:4 Love is care for human good. Love is not your feelings or your emotions. Love means you give a hoot. That’s what it means. In fact, you can actually feel emotions or feelings of affection toward someone and not actually love them. And vice versa. You can be angry with someone and love him or her. You can be really upset with someone and yet find it in your heart to love. You can hope somebody is arrested and put in jail and still love. That’s the truth. Prayer: Dear Lord, as I open myself to your love for me, may that love fill me with love for those who have