May 2, 2021
During these difficult days, Bishop Devadhar and members of the Extended Cabinet are sharing a daily prayer based on the Revised Common Lectionary for the week.
You are welcome to use these in worship or in your own devotions.
Today’s prayer
What is to prevent me from being baptized?
Prayer based on Acts 8:26-40, reflecting on the 29th anniversary of my baptism.
What is to prevent me from being baptized? As a young girl, I was told to be patient. I wasn’t old enough, I didn’t understand. Yet I yearned to be baptized, Receiving that grace from God, Claimed as one of God’s beloved children. What is to prevent me from being baptized? Finally, at age 12, my parents deemed me old enough. Old enough to discern, to claim, To embody God’s call on my life. Nervousness approaching the communion rail, Embarrassed that the other confirmands were baptized years ago. What is to prevent me from being baptized? Pastor grabbing pitcher, basin, and shell, Holy Spirit and cold refreshing water. Water washed and spirit born. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, Member of the family of Christ. What is to prevent me from being baptized? Nothing. Help me to see those who are desiring this tangible expression of their faith. So when the opportunity arises, I might respond like Philip, Teaching, connecting, baptizing, rejoicing, sharing the Good News. Help me nurture those seeds of faith in others and in myself. Amen. By Rev. Megan Stowe, Commonwealth West District Superintendent
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