ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
February 26, 2021
Scripture: Romans 6:3-4
Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.
Thought for the Day: There are so many things missing from our lives right now, but among them are many of the rituals and practices of our faith. Oh sure, we are able to participate in modified ways, yet part of the meaning we find in the sacraments and liturgy of the church is found in the feeling that we are connected to something greater and older than ourselves. Prior to the pandemic, there was a noticeable increase, especially among younger people, when it came to a hunger for ancient customs and celebrations. It was rooted in feelings of isolation and historic disconnect. That was more than a year ago, and I believe the yearning has only intensified. The Apostle Paul provided some meaning to the practice of Baptism, suggesting it is a living act that mirrors the death and resurrection of Jesus. We can talk about dying and rising, passing away and rebirth, but there is something very real when we go under the water and rise from the water. It is experiential, giving tangible significance to the ideas we claim. Until we can fully participate in the sacraments and rituals of our faith, let us seek out other ways of finding that connection.
Prayer: Continue to provide experiences that teach and reinforce the faith, O Lord. Connect me, not only to what I claim to believe and value, but connect me to you and your love. Amen.
