A few weeks ago we heard about Samuel’s dedication. This week it’s Jesus’ turn. Sam was baptized because his folks brought him to the altar. Jesus went down to the river all on his own. I mean sure, there were witnesses, just like for Sam, but, Jesus declared his own belonging.
Baptism is a forever thing. Once dedicated to God, we are never removed from sacredness or subscription. Actually, we are sacred before subscription, but baptism is our way of making it public.
Our sacredness is not based on anything we do (or don’t do) and no one can strip another person of their belonging. You may be saddened to learn that for LGBTQ+ folks the story is sometimes very different. For some, faith-life has come under attack because of coming out as gay, lesbian, transgender or queer. Now, only God gives and takes away holy things. And the door to The Club of God’s holy place only swings one way...IN.
ELCA Lutherans are a faith family who believe ALL God’s children have EQUAL value, worth and beauty. If it’s good enough for Jesus, it’s good enough for us. Maybe he was Lutheran, lol. Lord knows he razzled up more than one fight on God’s behalf (a wink and nod to the Protestant Reformation).
Here’s the thing, when we Christians choose to baptize our children, we acknowledge we have publicly given them back to God. The entire community of believers rallies around and publicly confesses to be an active part of their upbringing. It’s a done deal. God squeals in delight!
Imagine for a second how your life would be impacted by someone you don’t even know demanding that God no longer loves you and you can no longer worship together...and then imagine that person is part of your family. Sit with that a moment…
It’s the middle of January and already some have been told they are now out in the cold. No one has that power or authority. YOUR BELOVEDNESS IS FROM GOD (not from another person). Our baptism into the mystery of Love is ours. No one can take it from us and we cannot take it from anyone else. Just like your thumbprint is your entrance to humanity, your baptism is your heartprint into the Mystery.
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