Acts 2:38
Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Working at our local Presbyterian camp Cedarkirk was always filled with good life lessons. There were always a few campers that at the beginning of the week that were not at all interested in song time. They would often line the walls, arms crossed, with scowled faces watching as counselors and some campers alike would be goofy and silly making hand gestures to songs. I admit that the whole spectacle probably looks ridiculous. The goal of the counselor would be to try to get kids to participate not just for the sake of joining in but because participating inevitably evolved into their own joy. It’s very hard to not feel joyous when you are tutting with pointed hands like Pharoah.
Participation in our spirituality is also our calling as Christians. While grace abounds because of Jesus and regardless of our election, there is a joy and connection that comes through our actions and participation in our own Christian journey. When we lean into God, we feel that connection. As the disciples were baptizing early Christians and helping convert many into the early church, Peter helped them understand the gift of the Holy Spirit that comes through choosing to be part of this community. When we lean into God, by the power of the Spirit, we see many of these gifts in our lives. Where do you see the gifts of God in your life?
Prayer
Spirit of the Living God, we thank you for calling us to be part of you. Help us to lean into our relationship with you and feel the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. In your Son’s Name, Amen.