“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.”
—Acts 2:36-41

~~~~~

Unwrapping the Gift
By Jennifer Kane

A gift, wrapped in mercy,
placed before trembling hands.
The weight of it—heavy, yet light,
for it carries both sorrow and joy.

The ribbon is cut by truth:
“You crucified the Lord, the Messiah.”
It slices deep,
a wound of knowing,
a heart laid bare.

“What shall we do?”
The question,
a whisper of longing,
a cry for cleansing.

“Repent,” comes the answer,
“be baptized in His name.”
Step into the waters,
let the past be washed away,
let grace flow like a river.

The seal is broken,
the lid thrown wide—
forgiveness pours out,
Spirit rushes in,
new life breathes its first breath.

This promise—this gift—
is for the seeking, the sorrowful,
the near, the distant,
for all whom the Lord calls.

To open it is to rise,
to walk in the light,
to leave the corruption behind
and step into the arms
of the One who gave it all.

~~~~~

Scripture: Acts 2:36-41

The message of the gospel is both piercing and healing. When Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost, he boldly declared that Jesus, whom the people had crucified, was both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:36). His words, empowered by the Holy Spirit, cut to the heart of his listeners. Conviction struck deep, like a blade of truth revealing their guilt before God.

But conviction is not meant to leave us in despair—it is meant to move us toward transformation. The people, grieved by their sin, cried out: “What shall we do?” It is the question of every soul awakened to its need for salvation.

Peter’s response was clear:

1. Repent – Turn away from sin and turn toward God. Repentance is not just feeling sorry; it is a deliberate decision to change our hearts and actions.
2. Be Baptized – A public declaration of faith, identifying with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3-4).
3. Receive the Holy Spirit – The promised presence and power of God for all who believe.

The invitation was not just for those present that day—it is for all generations, including us (Acts 2:39). Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21). That day, about 3,000 people responded, their faith leading them to immediate action.

What about us? If we have already responded to the gospel, are we living in the fullness of repentance, baptism, and the Holy Spirit’s power? If we have not yet taken that step, God’s invitation still stands: “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation” (Acts 2:40). The gift is before us.

Have you experienced the conviction of the Holy Spirit? Have you responded to the gospel in repentance and baptism? If you are already in Christ, how can you share this message with others?

~~~~~

Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of salvation, freely given through Jesus Christ. When Your truth pierced my heart, let it lead me not to despair but to repentance and renewal. You washed me clean, filled me with Your Spirit, and now help me walk in the light of Your grace. May I never take this gift for granted, and may I share it with those who are still seeking. Lead me, Lord, into the fullness of life You have promised. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

January 30 2025