Matthew 2 (NIV) 13Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" 15Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented. 16As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. 17And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."
Baptism is not a very well understood concept by the average church participant. In many traditions, baptism is a ritual for babies. Many think of baptism as a static moment in time. We say, “I was baptized as an infant” or “I was baptized at First Methodist Church.” Baptism isn’t a moment; it is an entry into a new life.
It is more appropriate to speak in terms of being part of the baptized community than to mark a location or time when the event took place. The baptized community represents those who have decided to follow Jesus Christ. As one who is baptized, you are united with the family of God. You have a new last name – Christian. God calls you to participate in advancing God’s Kingdom. Through your baptism, you are a son or daughter of God.
You are part of the largest and most prestigious 2,000-year-old family in the world. You are a sibling to all who have been baptized into this family throughout history. This means you have millions of brothers and sisters spread throughout the world. You are in the family business with all these relatives. Your job is the ministry God has called you to. Your baptism uniquely equips you to accomplish this job.
Reflect on this the next time we celebrate baptism.
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