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Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion Sunday, July 27, 2003 "We are All Cheerleaders" |
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Frontline Devotion for Sunday, July 27, 2003 by Brenda Kessler
In the third chapter of Matthew, verses 13 to 17, we read about the baptism of Jesus. There were several reasons for his baptism. One was to “fulfill all righteousness”, as Jesus himself, mentioned. The baptism indicated that Jesus was consecrated to God and officially approved by him. Another reason was that John could now publicly announce the arrival of the Messiah and the inception of his ministry. Another reason for Jesus’ baptism was that Jesus could completely identify himself with man’s sin and failure although he himself needed no repentance or cleansing. And finally, his baptism was an example to his followers.
But what does baptism mean for us? We read in the service of Holy Baptism from the Lutheran Book of Worship that in baptism our heavenly Father liberates us from sin and death by joining us to the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ; we are reborn children of God and inheritors of eternal life; we are made members of the church which is the body of Christ.
In a baptismal service used by Pastor Dave, we read that baptism is a rebirth, a new life in Christ.
Those of us who read these frontline devotions and who are members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Gaithersburg, Maryland, have noticed an increase in the number of baptisms during our worship services. Many families with young children are becoming a part of our fellowship. It is, indeed, an exciting time as we breathe new life into our Christian community.
During the Service of Holy Baptism parents are challenged to faithfully bring the child to worship; teach him the Lord’s Prayer, the Creeds, and the 10 Commandments; place in his hands the Holy Scriptures; and provide for his instruction in the Christian faith.
At a time of baptism, as we welcome a new member into our community, we are also reminded that ALL are valued in a community of faith. We are reminded of OUR role with this newly baptized member. We are to welcome him/her, pray for him/her, and show our love to him/her.
We are to be like little Jamie Scott. Jamie was trying out for a part in a school play. His mother said he had set his heart on being in it, though she feared he would not be chosen. On the day the parts were awarded Jamie’s mother picked him up at school. Jamie rushed up to his mom with pride and excitement. “Guess what, Mom,” he shouted, “I’ve been chosen to clap and cheer.”
As members of the body of Christ we are chosen to clap and cheer for our newly baptized member even as we clap and cheer for our own baptisms! We are all cheerleaders for Jesus!
Prayer: Thank you, Lord God, for welcoming new members into your community known as the church each time one of your children is baptized. >Send your Holy Spirit into the life of each remind us that we are cheerleaders for You in each of your baptized children. In Jesus name we pray.
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All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry. Pastor Dave welcomes and appreciates feedback. pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org.