Photo Credit: Jacob & Kiki Hantla via Compfight cc

Most people can recall the best moments of their lives. We remember these moments because they are life changing. If I were to ask you your wedding anniversary, you could probably tell me (at least for your sake I hope you could!). You probably know the birthday of your spouse and children. You might remember the date you graduated after all your years of hard work. You may even remember the day you got your job or the big promotion you spent so much time working toward. Whatever the event, if it was important and life changing, you probably remember when it took place.

Like most of you, I have experienced my fair share of life changing moments. I have graduated, started my career, married a beautiful woman of God and been blessed with a wonderful son who brings great joy to our lives. However, there is one important date I will never forget. This date sticks out because it was one of the first life changing moments I ever experienced. On January 12, 1994, late in the evening, I came to realize I was a struggling sinner who stood in need of the grace, mercy and love of God. Bible verses like, “For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) became real to me. I began to understand that I needed the free gift of salvation that God offers to all people.

Around 11:30 p.m. on January 12, 1994, I surrendered my life to Jesus Christ and obeyed His command to be buried in the waters of baptism for the forgiveness of my sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 22:16). It was a life changing night on so many levels.

Since that night 21 years ago, my life has never been the same. When I experience difficult times, I am reminded of God’s love. When I feel hopeless, I remember I now have hope because of what Jesus has done. When I get too caught up in this present life, I recall my life is now about Jesus and not about me. When I’m struggling to forgive, I recount the forgiveness the Lord has granted me from my past sins. Surrendering to Jesus has truly changed my life.

You probably have a lot of events that have significant meaning in your life. What about the time you surrendered your life to Jesus and were baptized into His death? Do you remember the moment? If you haven’t surrendered your life to Him, what’s stopping you? There’s no greater decision a person can make than to obey the will of God and give their life and heart to Jesus Christ and be buried in the waters of baptism for the forgiveness of their sins (Acts 2:38). Why not submit to the Lord through baptism today? I promise your life will never be the same.

Now that’s Something to Think About!