Contemplative Bible Reading

Acts 2:38 (New Living Translation)

Peter replied, “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

This may be the most familiar verse in the Bible to many Christians. Here is my paraphrase (You may disagree with me if you wish, that is fine and expected. In a few years or days I will probably disagree with what I write today.):

Go through the rite of purification by being immersed in water. This time, purify yourselves in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, who is the Son of God, i.e., the one anointed to take away the sins of the world. This purification will bring the spirit of God to live in you. You can leave your old life behind you and live with God.