But now
thus says the Lord, who created you: "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have
called you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you."
As the baptismal waters were poured over the heads of each of our two
children and as the mark of the cross sealed them as children of God
forever, they were fortified with the greatest gift either will ever receive:
God said, YOU ARE MINE!
I will never forget either of those two moments. God promised our
children his grace, his love, his protection, and his forgiveness. Their mother and
I can hold and protect them and shield them from all that we can imagine and never be able
to promise them a gift so great.
Isaiah and his people were promised rescue
and redemption. Abraham and his descendents were promised a holy land where they could be
a blessing to all nations. Those promises came with responsibilities. So do the
promises God has made to us. And, oh, how all God’s children struggle to meet the
responsibilities, even in light of God’s great promises.
Our family is reinforced and
refortified each time Pastor leads the Confession and Absolution from the baptismal
font and its water of blessing. Remember the water! Each time a child is
baptized, it is the water, even the sound of the water, that brings back memories
of God's promise. We are strengthened by water, we are protected by water, and
we are humbled even by the sound of the water.
Holy and forgiving
God, help us to remember your promises and to act as your faithful children.
Thank you for your gift of the waters of baptism, and help us
to act on our responsibilities as recipients of your great gifts. We are
yours.
BRUCE BRITTAIN |
