Go
therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the
Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19 (NASB)
Joy bubbled up from my heart and found itself in a
big smile on my face. Drips and splashes led from the steps of the baptistery
down the hall to the dressing rooms. Mopping the floor following the baptism of
two more precious people, the droplets appeared holy and beautiful too me. I
felt exceedingly blest to be a part of this ministry and share in this hallmark
day in their lives.
I treasured
the damp side of my face and sweater after the big “welcome to the family’
hug as they climbed the steps leaving the water. Marveling at this centuries old
act of faith symbolizing our oneness with Christ through His death, burial and
resurrection, I glanced back at the ripples in the crystal blue water, amazed
once again at the miracle of changed hearts.I thought of the incredible foretold gift given to John through the privilege of being the one called to baptize Jesus. He was so in awe of the honor that he did not feel worthy. He tried to decline saying that Jesus should be baptizing him instead. Jesus, knowing John’s heart, understood his feelings and gently explained it needed to be carried out in this way to “fulfill all righteousness.” John understood and humbly followed through. How he must have treasured the memory of those precious drips and splashes that ran from that most holy and sacred head.
Dear Father, I thank You and praise Your Holy name that today, over two thousand years after Jesus was baptized, we are still carrying out this ceremony of obedience in remembrance and oneness with Christ. Amen.
© 2016 Bonnie Mae Evans
1 comment:
What a beautiful devotion, Bonnie. Even the drips of water glorify God and His blessed Son, Jesus.My baptism was a lonely one in that no family members were there, but, I had my spiritual brothers and sisters there as I was submerged beneath the waters of baptism. I will never forget it. I still long for my family members to be "one" with Christ and with me. Perhaps someday, before I am called "Home," I will witness the baptism of a loved one in my human family. I pray it will be so before I take my leave of this earthly abode.
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