Acts 2:37-38
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.” Acts 2:37-38 (NRSVUE)
Many of us may not even remember the actual service when we were baptized, especially if we were infants or small children. And yet, that sacrament left us forever changed in ways we did not even realize for years.
In fact, we still may not even realize how baptism has changed, and continues to change, us! As The Rev. Dr. Karl Jacobson, pastor and former professor, states, “Baptism is not simply something that is done; it is also a place, a refuge to which we are called and re-called, named, and re-named.” Through baptism, that refuge or that “condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger or trouble” (Oxford Languages Dictionary) is always available, always there.
There have been many times in my life when I have felt overwhelmed, nervous, stressed, or worried. Fortunately, something often interrupts my thoughts and causes me to pause a moment. On some occasions, I pray. Other times, I take a deep breath. A sense of calm envelops me. My situation begins to look hopeful and encouraging. I often quip, “My guardian angel works overtime!” However, what I really know is this, God, who claimed me forever as God’s own, through my baptism, works ALL the time! The Lord is always there for me.
As Pastor Heidi Binstock stated in her sermon November 9, 2025, through our new life received in baptism, God always stands beside us, caring for us (paraphrased). I just need to reach out and recognize the wonderful gift of this holy sacrament and keep the relationship active!
Questions for Reflection:
- If you have been baptized, how old were you when you were baptized? If you were quite young, what do you remember from what adults told you about your baptism?
- How has God been there for you, to support you?
- How do you view your relationship with God considering your baptism? Can you recall times when God was there re-naming and re-calling you as God’s own?
Prayer:
God, we are grateful for the gift of baptism which is a demonstration of your grace. Thank you for always being there for us, comforting us, and caring for us. In Jesus’s name. Ame
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