I truly hope and pray that the Easter glow has not gone dim in your walk of faith.

We are gifted with the Holy Spirit in our baptism. Contrary to what some churches teach, that does not have to be “re-done.” It saddens me when I hear of people I love and care about switching churches and being told they have to “be born again.” As if invalidating what God has already done. Affirm it. Yes. Every day, if you can!! Remind yourself of who and whose you are. But please – don’t be brainwashed or duped into thinking that you have been living outside of your vocation. It is NOT (can I say this too clearly?!) – NOT our own achievement, or another notch in a minister’s belt.

Titus 3:5-7 is instructive. “He saved us, not because of any works of righteousness that we had done but according to his mercy, through the water of rebirth and renewal of the Spirit. This Spirit He poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” Risen, resurrected through a death like his. Drowning daily to that reality of the gift given to us. We know the assurance of God’s grace and mercy in that act, HIS act, because of the promise that is implanted with that, sealed in that event.

So, dear brothers and sisters in Christ, use that gift faithfully, wisely, and JOYfully.

Remember that our Triune God loves us as a brother, a confidant, and a Father. Unconditionally.

Pastor Art