From Today’s Reading:  “On one occasion, while he(Jesus) was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Acts 1:4-5 (NIV)

Have you ever stopped to consider what the baptism of the Holy Spirit is?  Water baptism is something we can witness.  On January 9^th Kelsey, a new believer, is scheduled to be baptized here at Peaceful Valley Church.  As a new believer she wants to identify with Christ, his death, burial and resurrection and say to the world that she is a Christian and that it is her intention to live the rest of her life to the best of her ability in a way that pleases God.  We can all watch as she makes this public statement of faith.  Baptism is an outward expression of an inward decision made by an individual to follow Jesus.  Kelsey will be baptized on the 9^th but she was baptized by the Holy Spirit on the day she prayed to receive Jesus as her Lord and Savior.  God’s Spirit came on her and although we don’t see that physically, Christ’s presence in her life is revealed by her changed behavior as she is carried along by the Holy Spirit.  I praise God for the work of the Holy Spirit in my life and I pray His work in yours too.