Matthew 3:13-17
Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw God’s Spirit descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from the heavens said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” Matthew 3:13-17 (NRSVUE)
Since my dad was an ELCA pastor for decades, I witnessed him baptize numerous children over the years at multiple churches. During many of those baptisms my mom would often be on the piano or organ playing “Children of the Heavenly Father” as the family transitioned to the baptismal font. A core memory that has made a lasting impact. Verse three of the hymn says, “Neither life nor death shall ever from the Lord his children sever; Unto them His grace He showeth, and their sorrows all be knoweth.” An amazing promise from God that no matter what, we are his in life and in death. He takes on all of our sorrows and grants of Grace. Just as Jesus came to John at the river, our families come to God to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit at the font.
The sacrament of holy baptism continues to be a memorable experience for me at Southwood. There is such joy in the sanctuary and I feel a sense of peace each time the pastor baptizes a child in the name of the father, and of the son and of the Holy Spirit. Denise and Kim were kind enough to play through a verse of “Children of the Heavenly Father” for all three of our kids' baptisms as we approached the font. My dad was physically present for all three services, but Alzheimer’s had already begun taking his memory. I distinctly remember turning around and watching him mouth the words to the hymn during the first two baptisms followed by me trying to stay composed each time. Even though those days are in the past, today I continue to whisper the pastor's words throughout the baptism, hearing my dad’s voice. There’s a 50/50 chance of a rolling cheek tear each time. Not only because I miss my dad, but because of how thankful and humbled I am to be a child of God.
Amen
Questions for Reflection:
- How do you feel when you witness a baptism?
- When have you felt God’s Spirit at work in your life?
Prayer:
Guide us to live out the promises made by our parents, sponsors and congregation at our baptism by making choices that glorify your name. Over time, allow us to take on those roles as you see fit, continuing to live a life of Faith.
Amen
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