And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not;
John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:
Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,
And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
(Luke 3:15-16, 21-22 KJV)
John the Baptist baptized all of the people for the repentance of sins and there were multitudes of them! He told them that one was coming who was greater than he was and that one would baptize them with the Holy Spirit and fire. That one has come. Have you been baptized? Have you shared the Good News and encouraged anyone to be baptized lately? After all Jesus did command us to:
"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."(Matt 28:19-20)
Over the years I have encountered so many people who were not baptized and that includes both children and adults. Some were eventually baptized. Many chose not to be. In Baptism your sins are forgiven. In Baptism you are anointed with the Holy Spirit. In Baptism you are a child of God. What precious gifts from God these are! If you have not been baptized into the Body of Christ what are you waiting for? If your neighbor has not been why are you not teaching them and sharing the Good News of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord?
Receive the gift of life and live life redeemed by the Word who willingly shed his blood for you!
God's Peace - Pr. J.
No comments:
Post a Comment