Baptismal Rescue

This Sunday we celebrate the “Festival of the Baptism of our Lord.” Simply- it’s Jesus’ baptism, and the moment is miraculous! There are commands smattered through Scripture instructing baptism with water and the Word, but in Jesus’ baptism we see the inner workings we don’t get to physically see in ours, the heavens opening up and the Father affirming this was his loved Son, the Holy Spirit ‘lighting’ on him. Jesus was special and the moment proved it. His connection to the divine God was undeniable.  Tertullian, and ancient church father wrote this…

 

“For as after the waters of the deluge, whereby the ancient iniquity was purged away, after the baptism so to speak of the world, the herald dove, sent out from the ark, and returning with the olive branch, announced to the earth peace from Divine wrath. By the same ordinance of a spiritual washing, does the dove of the Holy Spirit fly to the earth, that is to our flesh, as it emerges from the laver (baptismal font) after its ancient offences, bearing the peace of God, sent forth from the heavens, where the Church is the ark portrayed.” Tertullian, On Baptism

 

There’s nothing that cleanses you more powerfully inwardly and outwardly than your baptism! What God demonstrated through Jesus’ baptism is what we get through our own baptism, peace sent from heaven. You’re special to God. You have proof – in your baptism, and it’s undeniable! Let’s celebrate the “Baptism of our Lord,” this Sunday and unfold a great mystery of God’s love for us! I hope to see you there!