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.
Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name;
worship the Lord in holy splendor.
The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
the God of glory thunders,
the Lord, over mighty waters.
The voice of the Lord is powerful;
the voice of the Lord is full of majesty....
The Lord sits enthroned over the flood;
the Lord sits enthroned as king forever.
May the Lord give strength to his people!
May the Lord bless his people with peace!
Psalm 29:1-4, 10-11
Today’s psalm was written in the midst of a storm. God’s voice is heard over the claps of thunder and crashing waves.
Watching a summer thunderstorm at the beach is an awe inspiring experience. The power of the storm can be terrifying; at times you feel as though you can’t hear even your own thoughts.
Even when the weather is peaceful, quiet moments are rare these days. Between mp3 players, TV, traffic, friends and family, there is almost always noise. I’m grateful that we can hear God’s voice when life surrounds us with sound. I’m glad God speaks louder than the storms in our lives.
Jennifer Peterson Singh
God, let me hear your voice over everything else. May it drown out the frightening storms of my life. Amen.
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.