Going down to the Water, the Jordan river to be exact. I never imagined in my wildest imagination that I would ever see the Jordan River in person and certainly never imagined ever actually being in the Jordan to be baptized again. Some of you may find it odd that I would desire to be baptized again so let me explain.
My baptism when I was 8 1/2 years old didn’t complete my salvation. I was totally and completely saved the moment I prayed and gave my life to Christ. My baptism was an act of obedience and symbolism to show the death and burial of my old self and the resurrection into a new life in Christ. Even as a child, I thought the act of baptism was incredibly beautiful and deeply meaningful. The pastor of my childhood, brother John C. Wiles used to say, “Buried with Christ in baptism, raised to walk in newness of life”. Beautiful, simple, touching words that speak to an incomprehensible relationship between Creator and created. So, yes, my first baptism is the only baptism I ever need to be obedient to the instruction of Christ.
I do believe, however, that I have to bury my selfishness, my pride, my sin, and so many other things daily. I believe that I have to choose daily to walk in newness of life. I don’t have to literally wade into a body of water and be physically baptized to do that. But I have to remind myself moment by moment that I have chosen to walk in newness of life.
My baptism in the Jordan River will forever be my reminder that, although one baptism is all Jesus ever asked of me, my daily choice of death to self and life in Christ will always be the desire of my heart.
Have you given your life to Christ? If not, I am telling you that this is the best decision you will ever make. If you have read any of my previous posts on this blog I hope you have realized that I could not survive this life without Jesus Christ. He is my rock, my stability, my joy, my peace, my salvation, and so much more. If you are not a follower of Christ and you want to know more about it, my phone number is right there on my website. Call me. I will be happy to talk with you about it.
If you are a follower of Christ, is that old self dead and gone? Are you leaving it buried or have you been doing a little exhuming of that old dead self? Maybe it’s time to wade back into the water and remind yourself that you are changed. You have been resurrected to walk in newness of life. Claim it! Live like it!
If you need support, comment on this post or pick up the phone and call me. Living love with Kelly is a community developed to support one another in this walk. It’s not always easy but we can come alongside each other and provide support. I’m here for you if you need me.
