Baptism Sunday

We have a Baptism time along with a picnic coming up on June 28th. We will be out at Lion's Park at Fairy Lake in the afternoon to share a potluck picnic together and then go get some people wet in the Lake! It is a great time and if you are considering baptism, then be sure to let Pastor Carlyn know or any of the guys on the Pastoral Leadership Team.

Just a couple of thoughts about baptism that I would like to share. If you read the book of Acts you come away with a definite understanding that in that day they "believed and were baptized". Then, when you look at Harvest Community Church you notice that we only baptize once a year. What gives? Well, other than the fact that the lake is cold and/or frozen most of the year, there is one difference between our day and the days recorded in Acts. In those days it was without question a big deal to be baptized. You were at that moment making a public declaration that you were now serving a different King...the stakes were high and everybody knew it. In our day the culture is maybe ambivalent at best, nobody really cares. Therefore it is imperative that we are sure we understand as best we can what the motive is behind those that seek baptism. In the early church is was clear, today we have to be sure that it is about making a public declaration for Christ.

It is in this line that I would suggest that our kids be at least 12 years old when they get baptized. I will of course honor a parents desire, but my reason is so that public and memorable aspects of the baptism be seen. I have witnessed, I am sure you have too, that kids begin to think differently around that time. The first time we here about the boy Jesus was around that age as well.

So, not to discourage anyone, but let's make baptism a time of celebration and commitment. Celebration that it is Jesus, and Jesus only who saves from sin. And commitment, the commitment of the one to Jesus our Lord.

Looking forward to it. Hope you can mark that day on the calendar and be there. And hopefully you would consider baptism as a act of commitment if you haven't done so already!

Orphanage help

Just made the deposit today from our Rice Bowls emphasis. $180 and change was collected! I believe this is enough to support an orphan in the Congo for a year! Pretty cool, and a great way to lead into Easter. Knowing Jesus and the power of the resurrection ought to make a difference in our lives and the lives of others. Thanks for showing His power through you.