We have finally arrived at the conclusion of the great 50 days of Easter, Pentecost. We invite you to wear red for this special day in celebration of the Holy Spirit coming in a manifestation of fire. Although we are in a different color, this is still the Easter season. As Acts 2 describes it, Peter stands up and proclaims the Easter gospel of Christ’s ministry, death, and resurrection:
Fellow Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know — this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. But God raised him up, having released him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. (Acts 2:22-24).
There is a tremendous response to this powerful sermon from Peter. He urges the people, saying, “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” (Acts 2:38). And over 3,000 people were added to the church that day.
Now I do not expect to get 3,000 on this Pentecost, but we will have one baptism on Sunday and up to eight on Monday at the school chapel. Please pray for all these children as they begin their journey of faith. And don’t forget to wear red!
Jerry+
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