As we enter the season of Epiphany (beginning January 6), we come to celebrate the ways that Jesus' glory is manifested. The baptism of our Lord was one of those ways. The voice from heaven confirms Jesus as God's Son as John the Baptist baptizes Jesus.
The season of Epiphany is also one of focusing on missions. Yes, even the wise men (Gentiles) from the East come to pay homage to the Christ-child. My message will focus on the reading from Acts 10:34 - 43. Here is an excerpt:
"Then Peter began to speak to Cornlius and his household: I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him."...
That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him." Acts 10:34, 38.
Peter here has visited the home of a Roman by the name of Cornelius and soon he will come to faith. God's mission is expanding beyond the Jews.
We also have been anointed with the Holy Spirit and power through our baptism. It enables us to do works that we thought were never really possible. Think for yourself how you are empowered to do good to others and manifest how Christ is in you. You have been commissioned and empowered by God to go out into the world and be part of Jesus' mission.
I hope that in the beginning of this new year, you will focus on the power that you have with your faith. It's all going back to your baptism. May you also remember that God has made you a child of the heavenly family through this sacrament!
Pastor Marty
The season of Epiphany is also one of focusing on missions. Yes, even the wise men (Gentiles) from the East come to pay homage to the Christ-child. My message will focus on the reading from Acts 10:34 - 43. Here is an excerpt:
"Then Peter began to speak to Cornlius and his household: I truly understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him."...
That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him." Acts 10:34, 38.
Peter here has visited the home of a Roman by the name of Cornelius and soon he will come to faith. God's mission is expanding beyond the Jews.
We also have been anointed with the Holy Spirit and power through our baptism. It enables us to do works that we thought were never really possible. Think for yourself how you are empowered to do good to others and manifest how Christ is in you. You have been commissioned and empowered by God to go out into the world and be part of Jesus' mission.
I hope that in the beginning of this new year, you will focus on the power that you have with your faith. It's all going back to your baptism. May you also remember that God has made you a child of the heavenly family through this sacrament!
Pastor Marty
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