Preparing for Baptism

by Mark Congrove

Can I suggest a better way to ready yourself for the Lord’s work in your heart? How about start now!

There are now countless apps at our disposal given over to the purpose of mindfulness. Some like “Calm” offer everything from the right music to the practice of emptying your mind and going numb. 
But I have an alternative. Why not give yourselves to 15 minutes each day for the rest of the week where you anticipate what your pastors might have to say and contemplate what your predecessors in the 1st century might have done with their week as they anticipated the coming Lord’s Day. Instead of emptying your mind biblical meditation builds truth into your mind
In my case, it’s likely we’ll conduct a baptismal service this coming Sunday.  Here’s a couple of steps to beta test:

  1. Quiet your heart… it’s likely you’ll need a quiet space to match. In my former life in South Haven, I would venture out on the Kal-Haven trail, find a secluded spot in the woods and “bathe” in the solitude of the space.
  2. Next, Read Romans 6:1-11, several times, letting each verse sink in…
  3. Close your eyes and think about the picture Paul is painting before you.
  4. Next, pray for your pastors, your fellow members (friends), and the visitors that may show up for this baptism. 
  5. Lastly, think about what you’ve gained as you remember your own baptism.

Enjoy your week

Blessings 

MJC