34Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ — he is Lord of all. 37That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; 40but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, 41not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
- Light a candle to remember Christ’s presence with you.
- Sit five to fifteen minutes in silent meditation paying close attention to the deep breath.
- The power of forgiveness is the freedom to let go of the past. As you gaze into the Christ candle, see the forgiveness God has for you.
- Allow the light of God’s forgiveness to shine upon you, to permeate you, to free you from the sin(s) of the past.
- Notice the warmth of the light as it moves through you, embracing you, freeing you.
- What new things to you feel in the warmth of freedom?
- What new things to you see in the light of freedom?
- What is the new creation God wants to give you?
- Give thanks to God for this time in prayer and for any new insights you have received.
- Share as you feel led in the reply box below.
Revised Common Lectionary Readings for Sunday, January 8, 2017, the Baptism of the Lord (Year A)
Isaiah 42:1-9
Psalm 29
Acts 10:34-43
Matthew 3:13-17
If you use these prayers in other groups, please give credit to author. Permission to use in not-for-profit settings (c) 2017 The Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD
Thanks Lil Good to see you here again!
Debby Bobbitt
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Hello Debby,
It is good to be in this place again. My spirit is renewed. May 2017 be filled with wisdom and blessing for you and yours. With a grateful heart,
Lil