This week at Sedona United Methodist Church we celebrate the festival of the Baptism of Our Lord—Each year this Holy Gospel reading brings us the account of Christ’s baptism in the Jordan at the start of his earthly ministry. This year we hear the account from the 3rd Chapter in the Gospel of Matthew— “At that time Jesus arrived from Galilee and came to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.” [Matthew 3:13]
If not for Jesus embarking on this course that would ultimately lead him to the cross, there would be nothing in the water. No forgiveness, no salvation, no washing clean or new creations. We would remain stuck in our sins—Oh, we might have moments of regret and desperation and make our way down to the river to have a dramatic experience, but unless Jesus gets in the water first and then journeys to the cross, there would be nothing in the water to make a real difference for humankind. And—It all depends on who this Jesus is.
Christ’s baptism tells us that he is indeed the very Son of God come in the flesh, come to do the will of his Father, who voices his approval of his beloved Son. The baptism of our Lord tells us that this Jesus is the very Messiah, the promised deliverer, the Christ, the one anointed filled with the Holy Spirit to carry out this messianic mission. Join us this week as the Rev. Fred Mast delivers a sermon celebrating the beginning of Jesus’ ministry—a ministry that has changed the world for all people for all of eternity. Come and remember your own baptism in this very special service of celebration and remembrance.
Immediately following worship, you are invited to stay and join us in our Fellowship Hall this week for a very special fellowship time featuring delicious goodies and snacks, beverages, and always great hot coffee. This is the friendliest and most welcoming congregation & fellowship time anywhere!
We offer several weekly book and bible studies: Tuesday’s join us @ 1:30 pm for a bible study at The Gathering Place in West Sedona; and Thursday’s Women’s Bible Study at 9:45am. So many great missions, ministries, and fellowship opportunities at Sedona UMC—Call our office for additional details.
Visit our website at www.sedonaumc.org and “Like” us on Facebook. We are conveniently located at 110 Indian Cliffs Road off the Back O’Beyond roundabout on Route 179 in Sedona. All are welcome at Sedona United Methodist—Come and join this growing faith family! Invite, pick-up, and bring your friends and family.
