<a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/1779779/open_sms">Send us a text</a><h1>I am Marben Bland, Pastor of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a living the word moment.  </h1> <h1>The Presbyterian theologian and professor John Henry Gerstner was asked to baptize a newborn. Days before the event the parents asked for a delay because a white gown especially made for the ceremony had not arrived. </h1> Dr. Gerstner asked the mother what the significance of the white gown was. The mother replied, “To symbolize the baby’s innocence.” Dr. Gerstner replied, “If the baby is innocent, then why are we baptizing him?”To be baptize is both a recognition of our sinful nature along with God’s grace to forgive.   This week at the end of a divisive campaign there was jubilation for the Trump team, and sadness for the Harris team.  The innocence was driven out of both sides in a sea of negative advertising, malicious internet posts and bombastic rally insults.   America and its people need the amazing grace of baptism.  The grace that only comes when we humble ourselves admitting our sins.  Submitting ourselves to God’s mighty forgiveness with the knowledge that earth has no sorrows that heaven cannot heal.   So let us symbolically if not physically be baptized, for cleansing is vital, forgiveness is needed, and grace is required if we are to be the nation that God expects us to be.    For More Great Content Go To <a href="https://marbenbland.com/">Marben Bland.com </a>

Send us a textI am Marben Bland, Pastor of Greater Bethel AME Athens with a living the word moment.  The Presbyterian theologian and professor John Henry Gerstner was asked to baptize a newborn. Days before the event the parents asked for a delay because a white gown especially made for the ceremony had not arrived. Dr. Gerstner asked the mother what the significance of the white gown was. The mother replied, “To symbolize the baby’s innocence.” Dr. Gerstner replied, “If the baby is...

Devotional:The Amazing Grace Of Baptism