Under the Water

Baptism was beautiful. I was overwhelmed by God's foresight in giving us sacraments that involve our whole persons in Kingdom reality. It seems like the world so often provides only the illusion of connection. A trailer for a movie out now touts online dating as "a chance to be whoever you want to be." It seems so much time and energy are devoted to building this wardrobe of illusory selves -- an outfit for every occasion -- to the point where we forget who we really are. Disconnected from each other. Disconnected from ourselves. Disconnected from God. See Abba's Child by Brennan Manning for more.

Yet at the lake Saturday morning, the waters were cool, the smiles and the tears were genuine, God's presence was real. We touched and were touched. The Spirit stirred over both physical and spiritual waters. With all of who they are, God's beloved surrendered publicly to Him, declared their utter dependence, and were blessed. Heaven rejoiced in the faithfulness of those to whom God has been faithful.

Lisa was taking pictures and video of the event, and she said that in much of the video, all that can be heard is the sounds of the moving water. There's something appropriate in that for me.

I realize I haven't said much here lately. In a sense, I've been under the waters myself -- not knowing whether I have nothing to say or entirely too much for words. Probably both. Anyhow, as promised, I'll share my reflections on images this week. Check back soon, check back often. Deo Gratias!