Psalm 98 is a psalm of worship.  From the beginning, we are beckoned to sing a new song to the Lord for He has done marvelous things.  There are days, however, when we don’t feel like singing.  There are days when things have not gone as planned: there are obstacles to overcome and barriers to breakthrough.  Yet, in the midst of it all, we remember that God has done, is doing, and will continue to do marvelous things in our lives.  For this, we give God all the glory and the praise.

Sherri E. Wood-Powe, Chief Ministry Officer

The text for today deals with baptism.  Peter has reluctantly gone to Cornelius’ house to witness to them.  During that time, the Holy Spirit comes among them.  Here Peter asks the question, “Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”  We are called to remember that baptism is more than the water.  Baptism is a sacrament which symbolizes the move of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  Take time to remember your baptism and the move of God in your life.

Sherri E. Wood-Powe, Chief Ministry Officer

The lesson today speaks to the relationship we have with our Savior, Jesus Christ.  As we study in the Word our relationship with Him grows.  The lesson states, “Jesus lets us in on the mind and heart of God.  He hides nothing from us.”  By growing and “flourishing” in our relationship with him we grow in love with him.  But also we are called to grow in love for others.

Lots of things separate us from others. Sometimes it’s easier to pick out what’s different about us than what we have in common. The early church felt the same kind of division between Jewish Christians and the new Gentile converts. The Holy Spirit, which was poured out on everyone, even the Gentiles, gives us unity. We are all reconciled to God in Christ and thereby reconciled to each other.  When we remember what Jesus has done in our lives and celebrate what He has done in the lives of others, the walls between us slowly come down and we experience unity, peace and love.

Iriciel ‘Cookie’ Gadson, Lay Leader