Today’s Reflection
It is through the sacrament of baptism that we are given our identity as people for whom Jesus Christ lived, died, and was resurrected. In baptism, we are initiated into the Christian church; we are incorporated into the community of God’s people.
—Gayle Carlton Felton, Mark Stamm, By Water and the Spirit, Revised Study Guide: A United Methodist Understanding of Baptism
(Upper Room Books, 2026)
Save 15% on this week’s featured book when you use promo code NEM0926 at Store.UpperRoom.org.*
Today’s Question
What does it mean to you to have an identity in Jesus and be initiated into the Christian Church? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
“Can anyone withhold the water for baptizing these people who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”
—Acts 10:47 (NRSVUE)
Prayer for the Week
O God of grace, as I am washed in the waters of baptism and in the blood of Communion, make me clean and pure before you. Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Lectionary Readings
- Exodus 14:19-31
- Psalm 114 or Exodus 15:1b-11, 20-21
- Romans 14:1-12
- Matthew 18:21-35
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
*Offer valid through October 15, 2026.
