ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 24, 2023
A couple of times this past Sunday, I said to people, “I love doing baptisms.” The funny thing is that a number of people responded, “It shows!” I’m glad to hear that my energy and joy around baptisms are visible, and though at times I might come off as being a little goofy, it is genuine. Sunday’s baptism of Joanna Andersen was so special for her and her family, yet it is important to acknowledge everything that goes into a baptism. We had a FACE concert the night before, so the baptistry could not be filled until the concert was done. Joel agreed to come to the church around midnight to make sure the baptistry was filled and the heater was working. When I arrived Sunday morning, it was full and warm. Paula got information about Joanna and did the introduction of the baptismal candidate during worship. Mariah made sure we had baptismal robes available to us and also printed the baptismal certificate. And Becca Clark was standing behind the scenes to help the baptismal candidate, making sure there were plenty of dry towels, providing an arm to lean on when the floor was wet, and just being a positive source of encouragement. I’m sure I’m leaving someone out, but this is all to say that I had the joyful experience of being in the water and actually officiated the baptism, yet so many others helped to make it happen. With that said, it is probably good to acknowledge God’s participation. That’s intended as a sort of joke, as each person’s participation is a response to the God who is the first actor (the One who loved us first).
Grace-filled God, we are forever blessed by the gift of your love. It heals, shapes, inspires, and calls forth the gifts within us. No matter who we are or where we find our gifts best utilized, we pray for the spirit’s energy to encourage our “Yes!” Amen.
