“And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up out of the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the beloved, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:16-17).
When a group from Central travelled to the Holy Land three years ago, we stood at the place where Jesus came up out of the water in the Jordan. Many who travelled would say it was a highlight of the trip. It was a day to pause and remember our own baptisms. We reminded each other that we had been sealed by the Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever.
Remembering our baptisms is a time to celebrate. Whether we were baptized as infants, young adults, or in old age, God was present in the Word and in the Water. God claimed us, infused us with the Spirit, and commissioned us to become co-creators with God and with all creation to bring about the goodness that God imagines for all. This is the promise.
And this is the work we are commissioned into. God created the world ‘for good.’ We are called to see ourselves as full participants in bringing about the goodness of God and to participate in God’s abiding presence that brings about a story of home for each person we encounter.
While it has been a challenging week in our beloved city of Minneapolis, God continues to work in and through us. On these difficult days, we are wise to remember that we are God’s beloved, called and commissioned to do good work as followers of Jesus.
So, as you remember or imagine your baptism, remember that you are claimed and loved beyond measure by God who created you, Jesus who loves you, and the Holy Spirit who lives in you. God has lit a divine spark in you. Let it shine, dear ones, let it shine.
See you in church,
Pastor Stephanie