Scripture: John 4:1-3
Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was making more disciples and baptizing more than John (although Jesus’ disciples were baptizing, not Jesus himself). Therefore, he left Judea and went back to Galilee.
Thought for the Day: There are things we’ve read but never really noticed. I’m pretty certain I’ve read these verses of scripture numerous times, yet for some reason the fact that Jesus was not doing the baptizing has never stood out to me until I read it last night. John the Baptist started the baptizing movement near the Jordan River, and it was there that he baptized Jesus. John continued his work of baptizing those who came, but the Jesus movement also took up the task of baptizing. It is interesting that the leader of the movement, Jesus, did not see it necessary for him to do the baptisms. Control with a movement might be necessary early, but success and health is found when the tasks and mission are decentralized. It has more to do with casting a clear vision with high expectations, and then releasing people to go and do without micromanaging. The Jesus model seems to have worked pretty well.
Prayer: Holy God, with Jesus as the model and your spirit as our guide, we seek to make disciples for the sake of your Kingdom of Grace. Thank you for trusting us in this work. Amen.
SUNDAY
WORSHIP – 8:15, 9:30 & 11:00
SERMON – A Politics of Kindness
AREA ASSEMBLY at 3:00pm
Texas City
Choir Concert at 7:00pm
In the Centrum
