Forgiveness & baptism
There is nothing that inspires me more as a Christ-Follower than witnessing a baptism. Baptism represents a changed life, for eternity! I was so grateful to be able to baptize two this past Sunday. Both had amazing testimonies and there is no doubt that the Lord is at work in their lives in a big way. I am honored that Watermark was able to share that with them, aren't you? 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9. God is good!
It was a perfect day to learn more about Forgiveness as we concluded our Live Love series... "Love keeps no records of wrongs." (1 Cor 13:5). So love doesn't keep score! This is not so easy, is it? We struggle to forgive and forget. We want to keep score in relationships and to sometimes hold the "wrongs" committed against us over someone's head... in our families, marriages, workplaces. The bible is clear that this is not loving. We are so blessed to serve a God who forgives and forgets ("purifies us"...). When Jesus taught us to pray, He said: 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. Matthew 6:12. What if God forgave us like we forgive others? In some cases we might find ourselves in big trouble!
Peter asked Jesus one day, 21 ..."Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?" 22 Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times. Matthew 18:21-22 Forgiveness is not a one shot deal... we forgive as many times as it takes. Who do you need to forgive today? For much more, please listen to the full sermon online if you missed it, or share it with someone!