December 28, 2021 | Acts 2

Read Acts 2

Scripture- Acts 2:38-39-  Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Observation- The people felt guilty and hopeless. They had the long-awaited Messiah crucified. What could they possibly do now to make up for it? Peter replied that they were to be baptized in the name of Jesus for the forgiveness of sins. And they would receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Even after crucifying the Messiah, there was still hope. Baptism connected them to that hope, Jesus, the Messiah. 

Application- What a joy baptism is for my life. When my sin is troubling me, when guilty thoughts won’t leave me alone, when embarrassment and shame over past actions fill my heart, I can look back at my baptism. God’s Word promises that in my baptism, I was baptized into the name of Jesus and my sins were forgiven. I’m washed clean! I also received the gift of the Holy Spirit who creates and strengthens faith in Jesus as my Savior. No matter what sin I’ve committed, no matter how big, God promises me in baptism he’s connected me to my Savior and has forgiven me my sins. There is always hope! 

Prayer- Father, thank you for washing me clean in my baptism. I can look back on that day and know that in baptism all your promises are true and trustworthy. Thank you for giving me something tangible that has connected me to my Savior Jesus and forgiven me my sin. Fill me with the hope of forgiveness today and always. Amen.