Ordinary Time

Pause

As followers of Christ, we join Jesus, who went before us, in the waters of baptism. There God offers us new life — a life with the assurance of God’s unfailing love and the power of the Spirit.

Take this time to reflect on your baptism. Give thanks for what it has meant to you. Consider anew what it might mean for your living today.

Listen

When God began to create the heavens and the earth— the earth was without shape or form, it was dark over the deep sea, and God’s wind swept over the waters— God said, “Let there be light.” And so light appeared. God saw how good the light was. God separated the light from the darkness. God named the light Day and the darkness Night.

There was evening and there was morning: the first day.

Genesis 1:1-5

Think

In the beginning, before there was shape or form or light, there was water: a deep dark sea with God’s wind sweeping over it. Holy waters. Chaos ripe for creation.

Are you ready for something new? God has been creating from the beginning and wants to create something good in you, too. When we come up from the holy waters of baptism, we are greeted by the light. We are given a new beginning. We get to leave the old behind and receive a fresh start. We are called “good.”

Not only at this special time in our Christian journey, but each and every day too, the Spirit of God is sweeping through our lives, offering us light and new life, a fresh start in Christ.

Meredith Forssman

Pray

Spirit of God, help me to remember that you are powerful and present in my life. I open my heart and my mind to you. Show me what new and good things you want to do in me. Amen.

Go

"God of grace and glory, you call us with your voice of flame to be your people, faithful and courageous.

As your beloved Son embraced his mission in the waters of baptism, inspire us with the fire of your Spirit to join in his transforming work.

We ask this in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen."

Revised Common Lectionary Prayers