Remember, You Are Baptized

 "The Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus 

in bodily form like a dove. 

And a voice came from heaven, 

“You are my Son, the Beloved; 

with you I am well pleased.”

(from Luke 3:15-17-21-22 and Psalm 2:2-7)

I have great expectations for 2022.

But, I am not naïve. I have just lived through an unimaginable year.

That's why the Sunday we renew our baptism vows is so important to me.

I am reminded, along with the whole church, I have promised to "resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves."

John the Baptizer, makes it clear some "wrath to come" is possible, especially for the hungry. We ask, like the people gathered at the river, "What then should we do?"

John declares, "Repent and be baptized."

Repent means to turn away from involvement with the old age's values of evil, injustice and oppression and turn towards God's coming age in Jesus Christ.

In this setting, Jesus comes to John for baptism indicating his turning from the old age to God's new age.

Jesus goes into the water, is baptized and the Holy Spirit descends on him. A voice declares, "This is my Son the Beloved"

God's new age is beginning. Look at the life and teachings of Jesus Christ to see it.

Our baptism by water and the Spirit, assures us our we will make a difference in bringing about the new age of Christ and overcoming the old age's rulers. 

When I see someone say their vows, be baptized with water and the Holy Spirit, I am reminded of the hope and power in God's new age in Jesus Christ.

I am reminded of people like Elaine who work for the coming of Christ's new age. For over 45 years Elaine has been living out her baptism covenant of "resisting evil, injustice, and oppression" through feeding the hungry. 

Whatever this year brings, remember, you are baptized. You have s role in "resisting evil, injustice, and oppression 

Remember, you are baptized.