Growing into Baptism

This upcoming Sunday (Jan 12th) is 'Baptism of the Lord' Sunday. Our readings will be from Matthew 3:13-17 (in which Jesus comes to John to be baptized as He begins His servant ministry) and Isaiah 42:1-9 (in which the prophet speaks of the characteristics a servant of God... part of a section known as the 'Servant Songs').

Baptism always marks the beginning of a Kingdom relationship. In the Baptism of a child it is the beginning of a life in a Christian family. In traditions that practice adult baptism it marks the beginning of a new relationship with a particular faith community. For Jesus it was the start of His public ministry.

Following on from last weeks sermon the 'Word' (in Hebrew 'dabhar' - the creative energy of God) is very much present as a voice is heard from heaven declaring "This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased."

Martin Luther was said to have urged his congregants to 'Grow into their baptisms'. Baptism was not seen as a sign of having arrived somewhere but of having started something. How do we measure our baptismal growth? Maybe the servant song passage can help us.

One area of growth we are expected to move forward in is growth of character. We are not supposed to stay the same but be transformed by God's love. That can only happen as we become less reliant on self and more reliant on God. What marks the servant out as distinctive is the servants ability not to lift themselves up, but rather to allow God to work through them. Contrasts are made between the way of power and domination in comparison to servant-hood and seeking peace. We can ask ourselves, "How am I growing more reliant on God? How much am I prepared to let God fight my battles rather than self micro-manage every crisis?"

A second area of growth can be seen in the area of compassion. As the days go by are our hearts become harder or more tender? Endless knock backs, let downs and frustrations can cause us to become cynical and cold. Such was not the way of Jesus. Despite all the abuse and hostility He endured, He was able to look beyond the individuals hurts and prejudices, and still see His oppressors as beloved children of God. No where is this more evident than His words on the Cross 'Forgive them Father, for they don't know what they are doing!'  How are we doing when it comes to dealing with those who don't agree with us, maybe even threaten us and oppose us? How aware are we of the hurts and needs that may be driving them? Do we deal with others 'harshly' or 'gently'? Isaiah 42:3 'A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out.

A third area of growing into our baptism concerns conviction. The Servant is not a quitter. Many folk give up on their churches. For some their church is the last thing on their list of priorities. If something else comes along, that they feel is more worthy of their (or their families) time, talents, treasures and influence, then the 'church thing' is pushed further and further down the list or dropped altogether. To remain fully engaged with something you have to be convinced that it has value.  How deep is your conviction that Christian faith remains a pearl of great price, a treasure to be shared and the greatest hope for needy folk ... like you and me? If we are truly convinced that the gospel is good news, we'll be prepared to roll up our sleeves and get stuck into the life and witness of our churches!

So there you have it... a few thoughts to ponder as Baptism of the Lord Sunday approaches! May God help us all to "Grow into our baptisms".  See you Sunday! (Or check out the sermon online after then). Comments welcomed!