The Boundless Daily: Day 6 - Signs of the Faith

Welcome to Day 6.

Today we're talking about two things Jesus specifically told us to do: baptism and communion.

These aren't just religious traditions or nice ideas. They're visible signs of invisible faith. They matter because Jesus said they matter.

And if you're working the night shift, caring for someone at home, or in a place where gathering physically is complicated , you might wonder how these apply to you.

Let's break it down.

Why Signs Matter

Jesus could have kept everything spiritual and internal.

He didn't.

He gave us physical acts , water, bread, and juice , to mark moments and remember truth.

Baptism marks your decision to follow Jesus. Communion marks His sacrifice and your ongoing walk with Him.

These aren't optional extras. They're part of following Jesus.

Baptism: Your Public Declaration

Baptism is immersion in water after you've decided to follow Jesus.

It's not about getting saved. You're already saved by faith in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9). Baptism is your public way of saying, "I'm all in."

It represents death to your old life and resurrection into your new life in Christ. Romans 6:4 says it clearly: "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."

You go under the water. You come back up. It's a picture of what already happened in your heart.

Here's what baptism is not:

• It's not magic

• It doesn't save you

• It doesn't make you more loved by God

Here's what it is:

• Obedience to Jesus' command

• A public testimony of your faith

• A moment you'll remember

What If You Can't Get to a Church Right Now?

If you're a caregiver who can't leave the house, a shift worker on a rotation that never lines up with services, or someone in a hard-to-reach location , don't stress.

Baptism is important, but it's something you do when you can connect with a local church body. It's a celebration meant to happen in community.

If you're ready to be baptized but logistics are blocking you, text us at 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies. We'll help you figure out next steps , whether that's connecting you with a local church near you, finding a home visit option, or planning for the right time.

Don't let obstacles stop you. But also know this: baptism is a step you take with the church, not alone.

Communion: Remembering Together (Even When Apart)

Communion , also called the Lord's Supper , is different.

Jesus instituted it the night before He was crucified. He broke bread and poured wine and said, "Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19).

The bread represents His body, broken for you. The cup represents His blood, poured out for the forgiveness of your sins.

Every time you take communion, you're:

• Remembering what Jesus did

• Proclaiming His death until He returns (1 Corinthians 11:26)

• Renewing your commitment to follow Him

Can You Take Communion Alone or Online?

Yes.

Communion is about your heart and your relationship with Jesus. If you're watching a service online at 2 a.m. because that's when your shift allows, you can take communion during that service.

If you're sitting with a loved one in hospice care and can't leave, you can take communion at home.

Here's how:

1. Get some bread (or crackers) and juice (or wine if that's your tradition)

2. Pause and pray

3. Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart (1 Corinthians 11:28)

4. Confess anything that needs confessing

5. Thank Jesus for His sacrifice

6. Take the bread and the cup

You don't need a pastor present. You don't need a building. You need a repentant heart and a grateful spirit.

We take communion together during our live Sunday services. If you can join, do. If you can't, take it where you are. Jesus meets you there.

What About Examining Yourself?

Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 that we shouldn't take communion in an "unworthy manner."

That doesn't mean you have to be perfect. None of us are.

It means don't treat it like it's nothing. Don't rush through it. Don't ignore sin you know is in your life.

Before you take communion, pause:

• Is there unconfessed sin?

• Is there someone you need to forgive?

• Is there bitterness you're holding onto?

If yes, talk to Jesus about it. Confess it. Make it right.

Then take communion with a clean heart and a clear conscience.

This isn't about fear. It's about reverence. It's about taking Jesus seriously.

Baptism and Communion: Two Bookends

Baptism happens once. It's your entry point. Your public declaration.

Communion happens regularly. It's your reminder. Your reset button. Your ongoing "yes" to Jesus.

Together, they frame your life as a believer.

Baptism says, "I'm starting this journey."

Communion says, "I'm still on this journey, and I remember why."

Both matter. Both are gifts. Both point you back to Jesus.

If You've Never Been Baptized

Maybe you've been following Jesus for years but never got baptized.

Maybe you were baptized as a baby but never made your own decision to follow Christ.

Maybe you've been waiting for the "right time" and it never came.

Here's the truth: if you've decided to follow Jesus, the next step is baptism. Not because it makes you more saved : you're already saved by grace through faith. But because Jesus said to do it.

And obedience matters.

If you're ready, reach out. We'll help you take that step. No judgment. No pressure. Just celebration.

Text 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies. Let us know you're ready, and we'll walk with you through the next steps.

If You've Been Taking Communion Casually

Communion is powerful. It's not a snack. It's not a ritual you check off.

It's a moment to meet with Jesus, remember His sacrifice, and realign your heart.

If you've been treating it lightly, that's okay. Start fresh today.

Next time you take communion : whether in a building, in your living room, or during an online service : slow down. Pray first. Let the Holy Spirit work.

You'll be amazed at what happens when you take it seriously.

A Note for Caregivers and Shift Workers

If your schedule makes church attendance nearly impossible, hear this: you're not forgotten.

Baptism is something you'll do when you can connect with a local body. It's worth the wait. It's worth the planning. And we'll help you make it happen.

Communion, though, is for you right now. Don't wait for "normal" life to return. Don't wait for a building.

Take communion where you are. Jesus is there.

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Boundless Online Church is a ministry of FA Memphis.

If you need prayer, encouragement, or help taking your next step, text 1-901-213-7341 (message & data rates may apply). Not for emergencies. We're here for you ; no matter where you are or what shift you're working.