On Sunday a member of our congregation was baptised and welcomed into our own church family and the worldwide church. The service was full of signs which point us towards a life of faith in Jesus Christ:
Making a sign of his cross in oil – pointing to Jesus’s complete giving of himself to us and his willingness to lay down his life that we might live.
The water of baptism is a sign of us dying to our old life and being re-born, being washed clean and a reminder that Jesus is the water of life – essential for life itself.
A lighted candle – a sign that Jesus is the light of the world who lightens our darkness and encourage us to shine as a light in the world to God’s glory.
Whatever the differences in traditions and style, churches of all denominations in all parts of the world share the sacrament of baptism. The words and the signs help us turn our attention towards Jesus Christ and the abundant life he offers to all. In the middle of the week of prayer for Christian unity we can pray together with Christians around the world:
God of life,
You have created us to have life, and life in all its fullness.
Help your wounded Church to be a source of hope and healing.
As we follow Jesus’ way with determination, may we lead others to you.
We pray in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
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