When I think about the many who were baptized in water this past Sunday, I'm immediately reminded of the love that God has for us. I imagine that He jumped giddy with excitement when the dozen and a half folks stood boldly in front of their family, friends and passersby to declare their desire to follow Jesus. I imagine God's heart warmed with passion as each person was submerged into the Long Beach waters and emerged a new person.
It truly was amazing to be part of such a wonderful day.
Isaiah 54:10 says, "Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken.”
Hesed is the Hebrew word that describes the unfailing love that Isaiah alludes to. It's a love that is so enduring that it persists beyond any sin or betrayal to mend brokenness and graciously extend forgiveness. This is the powerful love that God has for us. This is the unconditional love that God extends our way. This, Hesed, is the unfailing love that God desires we extend to others.
Water Baptisms are a great continuation point in people's journey toward discovering God in this deeper way. What I look forward to, as one of the shepherds of our church, is to walk along side folks in their discovery of God's deep love for them and for others. It excites me to witness His unfailing love emerge from the depth of people and see those very same people extend God's love outwardly.
I truly look forward to our next Water Baptism service and our journey together, as a church family, in preaching and living out the Gospel.
