Last week we celebrated Ash Wednesday. As we begin this season of Lent, we gather in church for corporate worship — and for me, it’s also a very personal time. We observe this 40-day period (from Ash Wednesday through Maundy Thursday) to meditate on the suffering Christ endured on our behalf. We also take time during this Lenten season to reflect on our baptism. How much more personal can you get?

The relationship between Christ’s death and resurrection and our own baptism is strong — read Romans 6:1-11. Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? (Romans 6:3). As we contemplate the passion of Jesus, we can’t help but be awed by His indescribable gift of salvation. His gift-giving continues in the Sacrament of Holy Baptism.

During this Lenten season, I plan to reflect on the reason for my Savior’s suffering and death — my sin. This is also a time for me to remember my baptism. Through Holy Baptism I have received the benefits of Christ’s death on the cross. My sinful nature was washed away by water and the Word. I was baptized into His death and resurrection. My new life began. As a child of God, I become His and am alive in Christ. I can live in the peace and joy of Easter! For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his (Romans 6:5).

Worship with your church family during this Lenten season but remember — Jesus did this for you. It’s personal.

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie