Day 4 | Baptized

Command:

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1(NIV)

Read:

For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. Romans 6:6-7

Reflect:

As a mom of two teen boys, I'm deeply grateful for their upbringing at EastLake Church. In truth, they've never known a life without the presence of Christ. Their lives are rich with friendships, vibrant youth group meetings, absorbing knowledge about God, and nurturing their relationship with Jesus.

I remember the Winter Camp this year; it was truly a standout moment for us. My youngest found the courage to stand before everyone and confess that he had accepted Jesus into his heart. Seeing this, I was overwhelmed with emotion—I'm not ashamed to say I wept openly. It was his personal decision to embrace a life devoted to Christ, and it was profoundly touching.

As summer rolled around, he again surprised me with his spiritual growth. At the Summer Camp, he wasted no time in signing up for baptism. Once more, I was privileged to bear witness to this pivotal moment in his life. I watched as he chose to cast off his old self, to emerge renewed through his faith in Christ.

Speaking of baptisms, I recently watched the movie "Jesus Revolution" on Netflix. Spoiler Alert In a particularly scene, the main character, Greg, is baptized. The imagery is breathtaking, with a mesmerizing slow-motion sequence of him being submerged, almost as though he's peacefully drowning, only to rise out of the water, reborn. His transformation radiates joy, peace, and love— it was a deeply moving depiction of baptism.

Just like Greg, everyone in my family has experienced this rebirth through baptism. We've embraced a new identity, not just as Christians, but as followers of Jesus. The beauty of our faith is that we don't need to justify ourselves or prove anything to anyone. We find comfort in knowing that we're saved by His sacrifice, His redeeming love.

React:

Can you recall a defining moment in your spiritual journey that led you closer to your faith? How has embracing a new identity in Christ influenced your everyday life and decisions?

Pray:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of faith. We're grateful for the transformative moments in our lives and acceptance of Your love. Help us, Father, to live out our new identity in Christ every day. In moments of self-doubt or challenge, remind us that we don't need to prove ourselves to anyone. We know we are saved, loved, and renewed by Your sacrifice.