Because He Said So

A friend asked me recently what happened after I was baptized.  I told them that I felt such joy, indescribable, amazing, overflowing, tear filled, laughter inducing joy.  I can still remember it so clearly, hugging my Mom and my Christian brothers and sisters in the back yard of one of our Pastor's.  What an incredible day.

A short time ago at Church we were blessed to witness the baptism of a dear sister.  And you know, that joy that I felt at my own baptism, was present once again in my heart as I saw her go down into the the water and arise to new life in Christ.  It's makes my heart jump up and down in utter glee to see someone walk in obedience and enter into the arms of Christ through baptism.  Buried with Him in baptism, arising with Him in new life.  Baptism is such a wonderfully perfect picture of our salvation.

Jesus Himself was baptized.  As in all things, we are called to follow His example.  Luke 3:21-22 One day when the crowds were being baptized, Jesus Himself was baptized.  As He was praying, the heavens opened up, and the Holy Spirit, in bodily form, descended on Him like a dove.  And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy."  We are commanded to do the same.   Acts 2:38   Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Baptism unites us with Christ in death.  Romans 6:3-4  Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined Him in His death.  For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism.  And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.   United with Him in new life:  Galatians 3:27  And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes.  How amazing!

What a beautiful Sunday it was.  For me, witnessing the baptism of a person is just such a happy experience.  I know God Himself descends and fills the whole place with joy and grace.  What a visit!

Lord, thank You for the sacrament of Baptism.  The symbolism, the experience, the unification with You, the washing away of our sins and our old lives, being brought up into the new life You  bought for us on the Cross....all of it, thank You.  It is our part and duty to follow You into this most holy act. Thank You for the joy ob baptism.  I am so glad I belong to You!  I pray to live out this experience everyday!

Is the Lord calling you to baptism?  Do you feel His tug on your heart in this area?  Obey Him!