We had a wonderful and blessed time this past Saturday as we were able to celebrate the baptisms of four blessed saints in our flock. We celebrate baptisms because it is a physical symbol of an inward reality. When God brings people to faith in the death and resurrection of Jesus for the forgiveness of sins and justification in his presence, he unites us to the death and resurrection of Jesus by giving us His Spirit to transform us to the image of Jesus. This is called the “Baptism of the Spirit” in the Scriptures. Water baptism is a one-time symbol or sign of these realities for those who confess and demonstrate faith in Christ.

Below are the four videos from the baptisms.

This is a very powerful performance on Letterman last week. Here are the lyrics to this beautiful song:

Magnificent Magnificent. I was born I was born to be with you. In this space and time

After that and ever after I haven’t had a clue. Only to break rhyme. This foolishness can leave a heart black and blue Only love, only love can leave such a mark. But only love, only love can heal such a scar

I was born. I was born to sing for you. I didn’t have a choice but to lift you up. And sing whatever song you wanted me to I give you back my voice From the womb my first cry, it was a joyful noise…

Only love, only love can leave such a mark But only love, only love can heal such a scar. Justified till we die, you and I will magnify The Magnificent Magnificent Only love, only love can leave such a mark But only love, only love unites our hearts Justified till we die, you and I will magnify The Magnificent
Magnificent Magnificent