The Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist
Baptism is the sacrament that unites us with Jesus Christ and makes us members of God’s family, the church. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, baptism initiates us into the Church, assures us that God forgives our sins, bestows the promise of God’s grace upon us and calls us to a life of Christian service and fulfillment.
Start by reading the Bible Story or watching the video and going through the wondering/discussion questions. Then pick the activities your family or small group would like to do, as many or few as you like. Close your time with prayer – use your own or the one provided.
Bible Story
Read Matthew 3: 13-17 from your favorite Bible.
Wonder/Discussion Questions
For children
For Youth and Adults
Prayer
Dear God, we thank you for the gift of your Son Jesus. As we learn more about Him and the sacrifice he made for us, let all that we do be in response to his love and example. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
A prayer to share with the group – Anniversary of a Baptism by Rev. Traci Smith
My baptism is special. I remember what it means. God, you love me. You choose me.
You delight in me too. I remember that baptism means I am loved, I am chosen, I am a delight!
As I grow in faith, help me learn to love mystery and walk in your ways. Amen.
Activities
Baptism Stories
Walk & Explore Around the Lake
Go on a walk near the lake (or another body of water). What lives in and around the water? Why is the water important? Think about the symbol of water from Jesus’ baptism story. Think about what it would have been like to see Jesus baptized here.
Videos
Books
When God Made You by Paul Matthew Turner
Water Come Down by Walter Wangerin