March 30
The Gift of
Baptism
"Peter replied, ‘Turn away from your sins and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ. Then your sins will be forgiven. You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’"
Acts 2:38 (NIrV)
Harry and Jessie sat in the back row of the small church they had started attending a few months ago. The pastor was speaking passionately about baptism, explaining its significance as an outward declaration of an inward transformation. Harry shifted in his seat, feeling a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Jessie, sitting beside him, held his hand tightly.
The couple had come to faith together after years of searching for something more. Jessie often said, “I always felt like there was a missing piece in our lives.” It was true. Their relationship had been through challenges—financial struggles, health scares, and moments of doubt—but discovering Jesus had brought them a newfound sense of hope.
Still, baptism felt like a big step. Harry wasn’t sure if he was ready. “What if I mess up afterward?” he whispered to Jessie as they walked to their car. Jessie gave him a thoughtful smile. “Harry, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about surrendering. Don’t you feel like this is the next step for us?”
Later that evening, Jessie sat at their kitchen table, reading the book of Acts aloud. She paused at Acts 2:38. “Harry, listen to this: ‘Turn away from your sins and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ. Then your sins will be forgiven. You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’”
Harry looked down at his hands. “It’s just… I don’t want to take this lightly. Baptism means committing to living differently, and what if I fail?”
Jessie reached for his hand. “Harry, we’re not doing this alone. The verse says we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. It’s God’s strength, not ours, that changes us.”
That night, Harry prayed for guidance. “Lord, I’m scared, but I trust You. If this is what You’re calling me to do, help me take that step.”
The following Sunday, Harry and Jessie stood at the front of the church, their pastor smiling warmly. As they entered the water, Harry felt a mix of nerves and peace. When he emerged, the weight of his fears seemed to lift, replaced by a deep sense of joy. Jessie followed, her face radiant with a smile.
Afterward, Harry hugged Jessie tightly. “I get it now,” he said. “This isn’t about us being perfect—it’s about trusting God to guide us, one step at a time.”
Jessie nodded. “We’re a new creation, Harry. This is just the beginning.”
The couple walked out of the church hand in hand, their hearts filled with gratitude. Baptism wasn’t the end of their journey—it was the beginning of a life transformed by God’s grace.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of baptism and the promise of forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
Help us to turn from our sins and trust in Your guidance as we take steps of faith.
Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who strengthens us when we are weak and reminds us that we are never alone.
May we walk in newness of life, proclaiming Your love and grace to the world.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
