Pause

Think of baptism as a kind of initiation. It's a starting place, an act that recognizes the new life that is coming to be.

It is a beginning, only a beginning, but it has its purpose.

Being baptized finds its purpose in what follows - a calling to God's way of doing things in a world that often resists, but is always changed by those who seek to walk God's path.

Listen

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.

Matthew 3:13-15

Think

I share John’s confusion when I feel God calling me. John’s words “Why have you come to me?” are often mine. I don’t know why God would want me and if I even understand what I’m being called to do.

Don’t you wish God still gave us a star to follow? Truthfully, I probably need a giant neon sign in the sky and a Wikipedia page to explain it!

Even when I’m hesitant and feel unworthy, I try to do what God wants me to do. God has carried me through confusing times in my life before and that gives me hope for the future.

Think about times in your life when you put aside your own doubts and insecurities and walked towards God; what happened? How was God’s faithfulness and love for you revealed?

Jennifer Peterson Singh

Pray

God, grant me courage to do your will. Guide my path and may your presence empower me to show the world your love. Amen.

Go

Every day brings something new.
And every day is a holy day
When you claim your baptism again.

May you be filled again with desire,
The desire to be filled by God and God alone,
Baptized to walk the disciple's road.