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Near and Distant, watercolour in sketchbook

Day 41 (Monday)  

Before conscious thought or action on our part,       
  we are born into the brokeness of this world.
Before conscious thought or action on our part,       
  we are surrounded by God’s redeeming love.
Baptism by water in the name of the Holy Trinity       
  is the means by which we are received, at any age,       
  into the covenanted community of the church.       
  It is the ritual that signifies our rebirth in faith       
  and cleansing by the power of God.
Baptism signifies the nurturing, sustaining,       
  and transforming power of God’s love       
  and our grateful response to that grace.  

Reflect for a time on the relationship between “the brokenness of this world” and “God’s redeeming love.” Close your eyes and imagine soaking in a hot tub after a day of hard work. Let yourself relax and receive renewal and comfort. What does “rebirth” feel like? How do you experience “cleansing”? What other elements might signify cleansing and rebirth?