Three
out of the four bible readings* set aside for today deal with the importance of
water linked symbolically with salvation. So firstly, Genesis Chapter 9
recounts the successes of Noah amidst much water, and secondly, 1 Peter 3
refers back to this episode from the Old Testament.
In
addressing Jesus' baptism with water, Mark Chapter 1 v 9-15 – the third reading
– recounts the beginning of His ministry. This passage is my inspiration for
the reflection for today – an epithet from my own faith journey.
I have
attended churches of different denominations over my time as a Christian (and
indeed as a child, before I was a believer). When the time seemed right before
God for me to publicly declare my faith – 5 years after becoming a Christian –
the tradition of my church at the time was believers’ baptism through full body
emersion in water. So that is what I did.
One of
the mysteries of the faith is that the words of the Bible start making a
difference to you in a way you had not experienced prior to belief. Such was my
experience with baptism. I identified with Jesus in his own baptism. I remember
the occasion well – having the chance to answer the Minister's questions about
my faith in front of the whole church, the act of baptism itself, a hug from a
dear Christian friend before drying off afterwards….. My family were there. It
was only a few months after the death of my mother.
As Jesus
launched after baptism into a ministry leading to salvation of souls, so I was
able to confirm that salvation for myself through the same act.
Sue Bird
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