As a pastor, there is nothing more meaningful and encouraging than performing baptisms and welcoming new members. Last week, we had a baptism and this Sunday we get to witness new members join Glendale Lutheran. Both of these events were postponed because of COVID but God’s church must continue its duties.
Little Jacob Grossenheider received the water and the word last weekend. His parents, Dan and Tiffani, I’m sure were relieved to hear the words, “Jacob Grossenheider, I baptize you in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” In a Christian home, the word of God is living and active, working on the whole household, including little ones. But all who were there on Sunday can attest that Christ claimed Jacob that day. That includes grandparents, Lisa and Mike, as well as his sister, Sophia. It also was an opportunity for all of us to be reminded of our baptism. God was faithful then and he is faithful now.
This Sunday, Laurel, Derek Don and their son Silas, will officially become members. They just got married at Glendale a month ago. Laurel is a lifelong Lutheran. Derek has experienced several churches. Silas loves baseball, video games and their dog. They graciously invited me over for dinner every week for a month. Together we talked God, marriage and family. It was exactly what Christian fellowship should be. In the midst of an isolated nation, we became friends. They all are baptized. They have been worshipping with us for months. But on Sunday they will publicly confess their faith in Christ and their belief in Lutheran doctrine. I’ll be smiling the whole time.
It’s encouraging for me that God is still working. The world has slowed down. People are separated. There is gloom in the air. But Jesus’ church continues to grow and flourish. As we administer word and sacrament, the spirit moves. We have a lot to be thankful at Glendale Lutheran.
