Scripture
“I baptize you with[a] water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with[b] the Holy Spirit and fire.
Reflection
I love baptism, its one of the outward expressions of the church that symbolizes our devotion to Christ. As lovely as this expression is, it is just that, an expression. One that is still very optional and one that is still dependent on the person’s devotion to the Lord. But there is another baptism coming, one of fire, that will consume all that is evil and leaving us precious and refined before the Lord. Some might say that the day of Pentecost was this event, however, it is commonly agreed upon that the appearance of “tongues like as of fire” that came with the gift of the Spirit was too itself an outward sign rather than the actual fulfillment of the promise.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
When challenges come we can so easily forget where our identity comes from. Today take time to pause and be reminded of God’s love for you
