### **Sealed by Grace: A Youth Devotion on Q&A 66 of the Heidelberg Catechism**
**Q&A 66:**
**Q:** What are the sacraments?
**A:** The sacraments are holy visible signs and seals, appointed by God, so that by their use, He may more fully declare and seal to us the promise of the gospel—that He grants us freely the remission of sin and life eternal, for the sake of that one sacrifice of Christ accomplished on the cross.
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### **Devotion: Signs of God’s Promise**
Imagine you receive a letter from a close friend, but instead of just words, they include a personal seal—something that proves the message is truly from them. That seal gives you confidence that the words inside are genuine and meant for you.
In the same way, God has given us **sacraments**—baptism and the Lord’s Supper—as visible signs and seals of His promise. They aren’t just rituals; they are **God’s way of confirming His grace to us**. Through them, He reminds us that our sins are forgiven and that we belong to Him forever.
When you see water in baptism, remember that **Christ washes away your sins**. When you take the bread and cup in communion, remember that **Jesus gave His body and blood for you**. These sacraments don’t save us, but they **strengthen our faith** by pointing us back to the gospel—the good news that Jesus has already done everything needed for our salvation.
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### **Reflection Questions**
1. How do the sacraments help you trust in God’s promises?
2. What does baptism remind you about your identity in Christ?
3. How does the Lord’s Supper deepen your understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice?
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### **Prayer**
**Lord, thank You for giving us visible signs of Your grace. Help us to see baptism and communion as reminders of Your love and faithfulness. Strengthen our faith through them, and help us to live in the joy of Your promises. Amen.**
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: [Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 66](https://relight.app/resource/Heidelberg.66)