Today As in the Days of Jesus

Today, as in the days of Jesus,

Ordinances are being performed.

Baptisms are washing away sins

And the Holy Ghost is being confirmed.

Now, with the whole Godhead on our side,

Covenants are made and go two ways.

Coming unto the fold, with sins denied,

We are witnesses for all of our days.

As we repent- weekly, thankfully,

The Holy Ghost guides us as a friend.

And we experience the Spirit poured so fully,

We are strengthened to lift and carry burdens.

Yes, to shoulder that pain

That weighs on others backs

So sweet the faith to gain

A smile one never lacks

Karen Ashton, “Sharing Time: Baptism, My First Covenant,” Friend, May 1997, 12

Ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in (Mosiah 18:8–9).

A covenant is a two-way promise between Heavenly Father and us, His children. The covenants He makes with us are sacred and holy. In them He promises glorious blessings to us. When we make covenants with Him, we show our love for Him and promise to keep His commandments.

The baptism covenant is the first gospel-ordinance covenant you make with Heavenly Father. When you make this sacred covenant, you show your love for Him. You also promise, or covenant, to take the name of Jesus Christ upon you, to always remember Him, and to keep His commandments. (See D&C 20:37.) You should also be willing to bear testimony of Him, and to love and serve Him by loving and serving others. (See Mosiah 18:8–10.)

After you make your baptismal covenant (are baptized), you are confirmed a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and are given the gift of the Holy Ghost. Heavenly Father always blesses you with His spirit when you keep your baptismal covenant. Each Sunday you can remember and renew your baptismal covenant as you partake of the sacrament.