Sacraments - January 19th

I love it when one phrase really sticks with me for the upcoming week.  In Judy's discussion of the Sacraments, she stated that the Sacraments are unique ways in which we experience God's grace.   God is already present in Communion and Baptism.  It's like we just join in.  He is there waiting for us.  So much like the rest of our lives.  God is there, waiting for us!  Communion and Baptism are acts of God.  These are times when God ACTS.  Again, a big reminder, that our salvation is not up to us.  God has taken care of it!

Baptism-
If your student was here this past Sunday, ask them the following question?  (answer below)

What is your new last name once you are baptized? 

Even before Jesus, the Jews were practicing Baptism.  However, they were using water and Jesus baptizes us in the name of the Holy Spirit.  Read Mark 1:1-8. 

In the Hymnal on page 33, of the Baptismal Covenant, the pastor says the following:

Brothers and sisters in Christ:
Through the Sacrament of Baptism
we are initiated into Christ's holy Church.
We are incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation
and given new birth through water and the Spirit.
All this is God's gift, offered to us without price.

Notice all the action verbs:  Initiated, incorporated, mighty acts and new birth.  Baptism is a powerful process.   Something is amazing is actually happening!

When you are baptized as an infant, your parents take responsibility for your faith and when you are confirmed, you take responsibility for your faith. 

**answer to question above-When a child is presented, the parents state the first and middle name.  Baptism is the process by which the child enters into the Christian family.  So, your new last name becomes Christian.

Communion-
See page 12 of the Hymnal.  When you look at the order of the Service, notice that there is an Invitation, Confession and Pardon and The Peace (it goes on from there, but I will just talk about these today).  How amazing is it that Jesus Christ, himself, invites us to his table.  He meets us right where we are.  We don't have to do anything, but accept His invitation.  Once we step into His presence we are called to confess our sins and they are pardoned (or forgiven).  Then, what follows?  Peace.  Does it get any better than that?