"Our firm decision is to work from this focused center:  One man died for everyone.  That puts everyone in the same boat.  He included everyone in his death so that everyone could also be included in his life, a resurrection life, a far better life than people ever lived on their own.  Because of this decision we don't evaluate people by what they have or how they look.  We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know.  We certainly don't look at him that way anymore.  Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.  The old life is gone; a new life burgeons!" 

 2 Corinthians 5:14-17  The Message

As we remember the baptism of Jesus and renew our own baptismal covenant this week at Bethlehem, we are reminded once again that it is through our baptisms we are united to the Messiah.  In our baptisms we get a fresh start, we are transformed.  We are created new.  Pause, , and let that sink in for just a few seconds.

Now hear these words spoken as part of our worship services this week. - At your baptism, you heard the words of Jesus, "You are the light of the world; let your light shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your father who is in heaven."

Today, we celebrate our new life through Christ, remembering that baptism is not just an event, but a way of life.  We are on a journey of faith which continues for the rest of our lives.  , your baptism did mark a huge faith milestone in your life but it wasn't just an event to be checked off of you list of things to do.  Your baptism is a way of life.  What does that mean for you?

These sentences have struck a deep chord in my soul right now as we search for antidotes for an out-of-control life.  Part of the chaos comes from how we choose to live our lives through the way that we treat others.  Over and over lately, I have heard stories of how deeply people were hurt because of what others have done to them or said about them behind their backs, in their work places, at school, via Facebook and texting.  People, who profess to be baptized Christians, not seeming to see anything wrong with deliberately hurting another person.  What's the antidote?  How about living a baptismal way of life - being transformed, not putting others down but helping to raise them up.  Treating others as you would like to be treated.  Sharing the gift of new life that was given to us in our baptisms.  

, I can guarantee you will make a huge impact in this out-of-control world just by keeping in mind every day that your baptism is a way of life.  Thank you for letting your light and Christ's light shine.  Amen.

Pastor Deb Grismer    

S.A.L.T.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 5 that "we are the salt of the earth." The Learning Bible states: "Salt was used to flavor food and to keep it from spoiling. Jesus was telling his followers to help others, just as the salt helps the taste of food." Therefore, let us be the S.A.L.T. here in Aberdeen.

Serving and Learning Together (S.A.L.T.) is a new ministry starting at Bethlehem in which we can come together to help serve and learn from others throughout our community. S.A.L.T. ministry is a way to connect with God and with one another.   You are welcome to come once, or each month. Come with your family, a friend or by yourself. We will gather together the third Saturday of each month from
10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. We ask children under 10 be accompanied by an adult.  

Upcoming S.A.L.T. ministry opportunities:

On January 21 we will be Serving and Learning Together at Kids against Hunger. This opportunity is for anyone 2 years of age or older.   All children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.  Contact Jodi to sign up or for more information.