Today, we look at a Day 4 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Holy Trinity, Wholly Love.”

Reading: Matthew 3:13-17

Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”

Reflection

Through baptism we receive the Holy Spirit, a new name, and a call to love the world. Matthew 3:13-17 tells the story of Jesus’s baptism by his cousin John. When Jesus came out of the water, the heavens opened, and a dove came down. Then God said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”

God comes to us through baptism. Try the ideas that fit your family the best.

Candle Talk: Light a candle and share stories about baptisms you have witnessed. What happened? Did you experience God’s presence? If so, how?

Activity: In many Christian churches people are baptized when they are babies. Talk with your family about how you might support people in your community with new babies.

Connect: Invite your camper to share all their stories about camp. Ask questions, learn their favorite camp songs, and give thanks for the new lights of faith that are shining.

Around the World: Name someone you know who is working for justice and peace. Pray for them.

–Arlene Flancer, LOM Curriculum

Prayer

Gracious God, we give you thanks for the gift of Holy Baptism, through which we are united with your Holy Spirit. Help us to feel the Spirit’s movement in our lives.

Amen.